Charlie Brown

Charles “Charlie” Brown, a man of unwavering dedication and service, passed away on Friday, May 10, 2024, at his home in Venice, Florida, at the age of 80. 

Born on October 5, 1943, in Joliet, Illinois, Charlie was the son of Charles O. and Kathryn J. (Patch) Brown.

Charlie embarked on a life filled with commitment, passion, and service. In 1964, he married Kathy Jisa, and together they built a life centered around family and community. They raised two children, Colleen, and Thomas, instilling in them the values of integrity, compassion, and hard work.

Charlie’s dedication to his country was evident from a young age, as he proudly served in the United States Navy during the Cuban Missile Crisis. His service to his country was matched only by his commitment to his profession. For 28 years, Charlie served at the Illinois Bell Telephone Company, retiring as an Outside Plant Engineer. Never one to rest on his laurels, he continued his career following his retirement with Byers Engineering Co. and MFS Network Technologies, where he held various managerial and supervisory positions including Operations Manager, Engineering Supervisor and Project Manager.

In addition to his professional endeavors, Charlie was deeply involved in his community, serving in various capacities that showcased his leadership and commitment to public service. He served as the Building Inspector for the Village of Diamond and played a vital role on the Village’s Planning and Zoning Board. His dedication to education led him to serve on the Coal City Community Unit District #1 School Board, where he advocated for the betterment of the local schools.

Charlie’s commitment to public safety was exemplary, as evidenced by his seven years of service on the Coal City Emergency Squad where he was the Squads first Certified EMT (A). In addition, he dedicated himself to twenty years with the Coal City Fire Protection District, where he was the district’s first State Certified Fire Service Advanced Firefighter/Fire Service Instructor and Fire Service Officer with an associate degree in Fire Science. He was proud to have retired as Deputy Chief. His passion for safety extended beyond his professional life, as he worked as an independent safety consultant, sharing his expertise in Industrial First Aid, CPR/AED and defensive driving with certification through the National Safety Council.

A man of many talents and interests, Charlie was a writer, contributing articles on historical military firearms to Small Arms Review/Small Arms of the World magazines. He was a dedicated Life Member of the Illinois State Rifle Association and belonged to the National Rifle Association, embodying his passion for firearms and marksmanship.

Charlie was an active member of the St. Juvin Post #1336 VFW, where he served as Commander and in addition served as Vice Chair of the Grundy County Veteran's Assistance Commission. His dedication to his fellow veterans was unwavering, and he leaves behind a legacy of service and sacrifice that will be remembered for generations to come.

Charlie’s passing leaves a void in the lives of all who knew him, but his memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and community. His legacy of service, integrity, and dedication will continue to inspire us all. May his spirit soar high, forever remembered as a true patriot, leader, and friend.

Charlie is survived by his loving wife, Kathy; children, Colleen M. (Roger) Bottens and Thomas C. (Margaret) Brown; grandchildren, Caitlin (George) Lynch, Zac Bottens, Tyler Bottens, Lauren Brown and Alexa Woolcock; great grandchildren,  Aaron and Colin Lynch and a host of friends, and comrades-in-arms who were touched by his kindness and generosity.

Charlie was preceded in death by his parents and one grandson, Dillon Bottens in infancy.  

In honoring Charlie’s wishes, cremation rites have been accorded.

The family will receive friends for a memorial visitation at Reeves Funeral Home, 75 North Broadway (one block north of Illinois Route 113) in Coal City on June 21, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. until time of VFW Chapel Service and Final Salute at 10:45 a.m. A private family graveside service with full military honors will follow in Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.ReevesFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Charlie’s memorial page online through social media.

Cremation services and memorial arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory in Coal City. (815-634-2125)