Peter William Charles

Peter William Charles, a loving husband, father, grandpa, brother, and friend passed away peacefully at his home in Lakewood, Il., surrounded by loved ones on March 19th, 2024. He was born on October 4th, 1953 at St. Annes Hospital in Chicago, Il., to Joseph and Frances “Pat” (Krause) Charles. Peter will be lovingly remembered by his friends as “Cowboy,” a steadfast, reliable friend with a witty sense of humor.

Peter grew up in Cary Illinois with his 8 siblings where he attended Cary-Grove High School until he enlisted in the Navy. While stationed in San Diego, Peter excelled as a rifle marksman, trained dolphins and was awarded a National Defense Service Medal. He was a talented and devoted engineer at Cardinal Health where he had a long, successful career.

Peter and his first wife, Jennifer (Ehlers) Charles shared 3 children, Kristina (Paul) Tillman, Mallory (Michael) Jensen, Nicholas Charles, and 9 grandchildren whom they lovingly supported and adored together.

Peter was a devoted husband to his wife of 20 years, Lynne (Speer) Charles whom he cherished deeply. Together they loved dancing, listening to live music, bird watching and hosting gatherings for family and friends. He was an adored step-father and “Papa Pete” to Lynne’s children Kelly (Mike) Hoffman, Claire (Thomas) Kraemer, Katie Speer, Leland, Speer, Scott Speer, and grandchildren.

Peter loved to stay busy and was a man of many hobbies which included fishing, wood carving, photography and cooking. But most of all, Pete loved to cheer on his 17 grandchildren at sporting events, dance recitals and in life. He will be remembered by all who loved him for his kindness, patience, wit and humor.

Peter leaves behind his wife Lynne, their collective 8 children and 17 grandchildren, fondly referred to as the “Cheerlets,” his sister Mary Severinghaus, and brothers John (Vicky) Charles, Bill Charles, and Joe (Lorie) Charles.

He is preceded in death by his father (Joseph), Mother (Frances “Pat”), Sisters Ellen Moore and Eileen Bower, and his brother James “Jim” Charles.

A celebration of life will be hosted in Peter’s honor at Fel-Pro/RRR Conservation Area in Cary, Il on Memorial Day 5/27/24. Details to be determined.