Dr. Charles Vonder Embse

Dr. Charles Vonder Embse, a devoted physician, faithful Catholic, and beloved family man passed away on April 26, 2026 after a long illness. He left behind a legacy of service, compassion, and dedication.

Charles was born in Lima, Ohio to Marie and Vincent Vonder Embse. He attended St. Gerard’s, Lima Central Catholic High School. He was awarded a Knights of Columbus scholarship in order to attended the University of Dayton. After getting his degree in pre-med, Charles went on to earn his doctoral degree in Osteopathic medicine from the College of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery at Des Moines University. Magna Cum Laude.

After completing his internship in family medicine at Doctor’s North Hospital, Charles went on to have a distinguished medical career.
He also held many leadership roles including: Chief of Staff at Doctor’s Hospital, State President of the Ohio Osteopathic Association, and acted as a national delegate for the American Osteopathic Association. He remained dedicated to patient care in both hospital and private practice setting for 50 years until his retirement in 2018. He then worked for Cleveland Clinic Columbus locations until 2022.

Outside of medicine, Dr. Vonder Embse found joy in the outdoors. He was an avid golfer and tennis player. He loved to travel and cruise in the Caribbean with his wife of 59 years, Sheila, two children and five grandchildren. He was also a lifetime member of St. Peter’s Church and served in the Knights of Columbus for several decades. He served as Grand Knight for the Knights of Columbus and was awarded Catholic family of the year by the Diocese of Columbus. He was also a member of the American Heart Association board and of Westerville’s Rotary Club.

In 2023 Dr. Vonder Embse was awarded the lifetime achievement award from the Heritage Foundation of the Ohio Osteopathic Association. This was to celebrate and honor his commitment to his profession and community of fellow physicians.

The family would like to thank Dublin Glenn Memory Care and Zunsman Hospice for their wonderful care and kindness during his illness. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Charles’ name can be made to: Alzheimer’s Association.

Dr. Charles Vonder Embse will be remembered for his kindness, humility, faithfulness, and unwavering dedication as a physician, mentor, colleague, and friend. Above all, he will be missed as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle by his entire family.

His legacy of care, service, and love will endure.

Visitation will be held on Friday May 8, 2026 at 10:00 am at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 6899 Smoky Row Rd. Columbus, Ohio 43235. This will directly be followed by the funeral mass at 11:00 am.
He will be laid to rest at Resurrection cemetery.