Charles Meier, 81, Bicknell

Charles H. Meier, a retired farmer and business owner, died at home in Bicknell, IN on June 24, 2025 at the age of 83.
He was born at home on the kitchen table in Sullivan County, IN on July 31, 1941 to Charles W. and Ruby Meier. He was the fifth of six children. Charles is survived by his wife Dixie and his siblings, Faye Polarek and Tom Meier. Preceding him in death are his parents, Charles W. and Ruby Meier, and his siblings; Marge, Shelby, and Shirley.
Charles and Dixie were married in August 1961 and enjoyed nearly 64 years of life together. They had two children, Charlotte and Charles David, and later adopted two more girls, Angela and Florence. He was blessed with seven grandchildren; Daniel, Kellie, Zachary, Kimber, Jeremiah, Leah, Lydia, two great grandchildren; Alex and Yuuki, and two grand dogs, Murphy and Monty.
Charles retired from at Prestolite after 26 years. He founded Meier Rental, in which he operated for 25 years, before passing the business onto his daughter Charlotte. Charles’ true passion, however, was farming. He took over Dixie Acres Farm in 1961 from his father-in-law, who founded the family business in 1946. Charles farmed for 40 years before retiring and passing on the family farm to his son Charles David and grandson Zachary.
In 1996, Charles survived a heart attack and open-heart surgery. His cardiologist gave him only a 10-year life expectancy but made it 29 years. He was able to witness the marriage of two of his grandchildren and the births of two great grandchildren.
He was a Polio survivor at a young age. The medical professionals told him that he would not walk again. Charles didn’t accept that prognosis. He worked with his physical therapy and when others would say that it hurts too much, Charles pushed through the pain and was able to walk again. He went on to run track in high school and continued to live an active life doing what he loved.
He loved farming, fishing, woodworking, raising hogs, having cook outs and spending time with his family. His greatest joy was watching his grandchildren grow up. He always enjoyed playing with his great grandson Alex.
A celebration of life cookout will be held on July 18, 2025 at 6 PM at the family farm at 11578 Ragsdale Road, Bicknell, IN 47512 for all family and loved ones who wish to attend. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to : Asbury Chapel United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 13, Bicknell, IN 47512.