Charles Neil Gentry “Chuck“, “Chuckles“, was born in Sumner, Illinois, January 18, 1951 to James Russell Gentry and Betty Lou (Fiscus) Gentry, (deceased). Chuck is survived by his son, J, of Bridgeport, Illinois and his granddaughter, Jalee, of Orlando, Florida. Chuck was the middle child with five siblings: Jackie McHaffie of Jacksonville, Florida, Russ (Wendy) of Athens, Alabama, Rex (Barb) of Sumner, Illinois, and Kathy (deceased) and Dennis of Tulsa, Oklahoma.
At the time of his passing November 04, 2023, Chuck’s son, J, his brother, Dennis, and his granddog, Biscuit, were at his side.
Following graduation from Sumner high School, Chuck served in the military. He lived in both Sumner and Bridgeport, Illinois, Hector, Minnesota, and most recently Foley, Alabama. Chuck retired from Suttle Corporation in Hector following 35 years of service, and owned and operated American Bar and Grill in Hector. Chuck was a Lions Club member and supporter; recipient of various awards including Lion of the year. He held numerous board positions, including president. He also served on the Hector City Council.
Chuck loved cars, trucks, tractors, and motorcycles. He was a loyal follower of NASCAR. He also enjoyed attending local and regional races. He loved fishing and storytelling; especially at the Liars Bench in Sumner. He returned to Minnesota for several harvest seasons to work for Charlie Mellberg Farms, driving a truck. He served as POA president for multiple years in Foley, and was instrumental in maintaining his beautiful community. Chuck spent many Thanksgiving mornings delivering meals for Turkey Take Out. If you ever visited Chuck in Foley, he would take you to his favorite restaurant, Roadkill Cafe.
During his illness, many close friends assisted Chuck. Mike, Cathy, Beverly, Bill and Sherri, and Bud were always there when needed. He also enjoyed time spent with his “bonus grands” Elli and Taylan.
As he started to slow down, his late afternoon favorites were Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune.
Visitation will be on Thursday, January 18, 2024 from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM CST at the Sivert-Macey & Steffey Funeral Home in Sumner, Illinois.
Please visit www.emmonsmaceysteffey.com to view the tribute and to send condolences.