NEW BERLIN - James R. "Bobby" Charles, 78, of New Berlin, formerly of Sherman, died peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, Jan. 24, 2009, at his home.

Bobby was born Aug. 14, 1930, in Auburn, the son of Maurice and Minnie R. Duff Charles. He married Helen McCurley in 1955; he lost the love of his life in 2000.

After graduating from Williamsville High School, Bobby served his country in the United States Marines, serving in Korea as staff sergeant. Bobby was a member of the VFW Northender's Club and the Aqua Sports Club. He retired from Roland Machinery as service manager. He also enjoyed vegetable gardening, was an avid fisherman in his day and a diehard Cardinals fan.

Also preceding Bobby in death were two sons, James and Patrick Charles; his daughter, Brenda Charles; two brothers, Maurice and John Charles; three sisters, Elizabeth Berggren, Dorothy Stoffel, Ruth Miller and Helen Anderson; and his parents.

Bobby is survived by a son, Michael Robert Charles of Springfield; a daughter, Grace (husband, David) Hamilton of New Berlin; five grandchildren, Stephanie Kruen of Chandler, Ariz., Shawna Oakes and Erin (husband, Brian) Weber, both of Orlando, Fla., Nick Charles of Sherman and Kelly Charles of Dawson; seven great-grandchildren; three
sisters, June Smalley of Bloomington, Mary (husband, Herb) Ward of Irving, Texas, and Kathy (husband, Ray) Merrill of Havana; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Family will receive friends from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday, Jan. 26, 2009, at Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield. A funeral ceremony will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2009, at the funeral home, with Vaughn Beeman officiating.

Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery, with military honors provided by the Interveterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County.

Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor's choice.

Please visit Bobby's online life story at www.butlerfuneralhomes.com to offer your condolences.




Published in The State Journal-Register on 1/25/2009