Charles J. “Chuck” Eldridge, 61, of Lexington, Nebraska, passed away Friday, November 4, 2016, at Cozad Care and Rehabilitation Center, in Cozad, Nebraska.

Chuck was born September 9, 1955, in Lexington, Nebraska, to Everett “Peewee” and Betty (Jenkins) Eldridge.

He was raised in Lexington and was a member of the Lexington High School class of 1973. In his young adulthood Chuck was injured in a diving accident. Doctors told him he would never walk again, but through pure determination, and hard work, he regained his ability to walk.

Chuck was married to Carolyn Greathouse on October 4, 1974, to this union two daughters were born, Hope & Shannon. The couple later divorced.

Throughout his life Chuck worked at several types of jobs; including, carnivals, construction, and landscaping. During his time as a “Carnie” in Colorado he met his former life partner, Stacy Johnson. The couple had two children together, Charlie & Chelsea. Chuck and Stacy moved back to Lexington to raise their family.

He enjoyed spending time with family, being on a pool league, Fantasy Nascar, pitching horseshoes, and being with friends. He also helped with Boy Scouts, Troop #144.

Chuck is survived by his mother, Betty (Bill) Slack of Brady, Nebraska; grandfather, Gerald Shadduck of Lexington, Nebraska; daughters, Hope (Ross) Umphrey and Shannonn (Eric) Winsenberg of Anchorage, Alaska; son, Charlie (Michelle) Eldridge of Cozad, Nebraska; daughter, Chelsea of North Platte, Nebraska; twelve grandchildren, Katie, David, Megan, Jessie, Morgan, Aubree, Lauren, Bristol, Baylee, Tessa, Cody, and Riley; two great-grandchildren, Trevor and Bryson; also surviving are his brothers, Gary (Jami) Roeder of North Platte, Nebraska, and Jay (Maria) Puryear of Hanahan, South Carolina, Gerald (Rhonda) Puryear of Carrollton, Texas; sister, Doris; and, mother of Charlie and Chelsea, Stacy Johnson of Lexington, Nebraska, as well as aunts, uncles, cousins, and numerous friends.

Chuck was preceded in death by his father Peewee; grandparents, Archie & Minnie Eldridge; grandmother, Bethel Shadduck, brother Ray, and nephew, Gerald, Jr.

The family honored Chuck’s wishes for cremation. There will be no visitation.

A Memorial Graveside Celebration of Life will be held Wednesday, November 9, 2016, at 2:00 p.m. at Greenwood Cemetery at Lexington with Pastor A.L. Cole officiating.
Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements.