Charles Thomas Heard, 67, of Forest Lake, Minn. died July 5, 2012. He was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, cousin and friend.

Charles was born in Austin, Minn. to Charles Henry and Olga Louise, who nurtured their son’s love of science, nature and wildlife, which was to be a lifelong passion. He was a scientist at heart, loved genetics and used his passion to raise award-winning pigeons.

Charles resided in Forest Lake for 25 years. He loved his wife, family and career at 3M, where he was project manager. He retired after 31 years of service. In 1968, Charles married Sandra Jean Heard, who remained his one true love, even unto death. He loved being Lutheran and fell in love with Jesus Christ in his later years. The Lords Prayer, Matthew 6:9-13, gave him much comfort.

Preceded in death by his father, mother and son, we know there was a heck of a reception for him at his new abode in heaven. Left behind to join him later are his wife, Sandra Heard; daughter, Rebecca Heard; sisters, Mary Grover and Becky Harbin; daughter-in-law, Nicole Klimas; and grandson, Charles Heard III.

Join us for his celebration of life service at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, July 17, 2012, at Crane Community Chapel of Austin.