Charles L. Mitcham Sr

Charles L. Mitcham, Sr. (93) of Centralia, IL passed away peacefully while rocking in the recliner at his home Friday evening, June 16th of 2017. Charles now joins his wife (Bessie) of 63 years, in heaven. They are survived by 5 loving children, Charles, Jr. (Diane), Fred (Sue), Linda (Henry), Thomas (Jeannie), and Vicki (Joe), as well as numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren.Charles was born and raised in Chicago Heights, served as a Corporal in the U.S. Army during WWII, and did a 4 year tour of duty in the Philippines. After returning home, he met and married Bessie, then raised their family. He was a dedicated father and provided for his family by working as a Millwright Mechanic at Tiletex for 30+ years. As Charles & Bessie�s 5 children got older and started families of their own, one of their greatest joys was taking the family on boating and/or camping trips. He loved to load up all the little ones in the boat, and take them for a �joyride�. After retirement, Charles and Bessie moved to Southern Illinois, and settled in the small, quiet town of Centralia. They shared similar interests, and were very crafted people�.Charles would make various things out of wood (birdhouses, Christmas/Halloween yard ornaments, frames, etc), and Bessie would finish them with paint/varnish, and floral decorations.Visitation and prayer service will be at Skyline Memorial Park Cemetery on Governors Hwy in Monee, IL on Saturday, June 24, 2017 from 10am-2pm. The memorial service will be officiated by John and Zach of Hack Funeral Home.