Charles Lloyd Foster

Charles Lloyd Foster, 82, of Mequon, Wisconsin, passed away on October 28, 2026, just days before his 83rd birthday. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Charlie was a respected historian and lifelong outdoorsman whose curiosity, generosity, and love of family touched the lives of many.

Born in Milwaukee on November 2, 1943, to Lloyd James and Ruth Evelyn Foster, Charlie grew up in Fox Point, Wisconsin. His lifelong fascination with American history began as a young boy, encouraged by his father, who helped nurture an interest that would become one of the defining passions of his life.

Charlie served his country as a First Lieutenant in the United States Army Signal Corps, spending two years stationed in Germany. Following his military service, he and his wife, Kathleen, embarked on an adventure they would fondly recall throughout their lives, traveling across Europe by motorcycle and sidecar. Together, they explored Germany, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, France, Austria, England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. Their shared love of travel, adventure, and camping was an important part of their nearly 60 years of marriage.

Professionally, Charlie began his career in sales, selling everything from typewriters to banking equipment. While he enjoyed the travel that came with his work, his true calling was always Civil War history. Over the course of his lifetime, he became a widely respected authority on the Civil War, earning a reputation for his remarkable knowledge, dedication to research, and appreciation for the stories of those who lived through that era. He was well known throughout Civil War historical circles and valued the many friendships he developed through his passion for history.

Charlie was actively involved with the 6th Wisconsin, the North-South Skirmish Association, and the American Society of Arms Collectors. He especially enjoyed the N-SSA national gatherings in Virginia, where he participated alongside fellow enthusiasts and shared his love of history and tradition with his family and friends. His years with the 6th Wisconsin, including the group's national championship success, were a source of great pride and countless cherished memories.

Beyond his historical pursuits, Charlie loved hunting, reading, camping, and dogs. He was never happier than when sitting in a duck blind, enjoying the outdoors and the traditions that meant so much to him. He also treasured the time spent hunting alongside his brother-in-law and friend, John "Buck" Buckhalter.

Yet for all his knowledge, interests, and accomplishments, Charlie's greatest pride was his family. He took tremendous joy in the lives of his children and grandchildren, always eager to hear what they were doing, how they were doing, and what adventures or accomplishments lay ahead. He especially loved watching them participate in sports and took genuine pride in each of their successes. His love for his family was constant, generous, and deeply felt.

Charlie is survived by his beloved wife, Kathleen Gail Foster; his daughter, Rebecca (Michael) Gunville; his son, Nathan (Ericka) Foster; and his four grandchildren, Charlie, William, Callie, and Emily. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Ginger Buckhalter; his nephews, Mark and Michael Buckhalter; and his niece, Stacey (Gregg) Buckhalter. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd James and Ruth Evelyn Foster, and his brothers-in-law, John Goelzer and John Buckhalter.

Charlie will be remembered for his extraordinary knowledge, adventurous spirit, generosity, and the deep love he held for his family. He leaves behind a lifetime of stories, friendships, and memories that will be treasured by those fortunate enough to have known him.

A celebration of Charlie's life is being planned for January in the Milwaukee area. Additional details will be announced.