James R. "Bobby" Charles

James R. "Bobby" Charles, 78, of New Berlin, formerly of Sherman, died peacefully in his sleep on January 24, 2009 at his home. Bobby was born on August 14, 1930 in Auburn, the son of Maurice and Minnie R. Duff Charles. He married Helen McCurley in 1955, he lost the love of his life in 2000. After graduating from Williamsville High School, Bobby served his country in the United States Marines, serving in Korea as staff sergeant. Bobby was a member of the VFW Northenders Club and the Aqua Sports Club. He retired from Roland Machinery as their Service Manager. He also enjoyed vegetable gardening, was an avid fisherman in his day, and a diehard Cardinals fan. Also preceding Bobby in death are two sons, James and Patrick Charles; his daughter, Brenda Charles; two brothers, Maurice and John Charles; three sisters, Dorothy Stoffel, Ruth Miller, and Helen Anderson; and his parents. Bobby is survived by his son, Michael Robert Charles of Springfield; his daughter, Grace (husband, David) Hamilton of New Berlin; five grandchildren, Stephanie Kruen of Chandler, AZ, Shawna Oakes and Erin (husband, Brian) Weber, both of Orlando, FL, Nick Charles of Sherman, and Kelly Charles of Dawson; seven great grandchildren; four sisters, Elizabeth Berggren of Chicago, June Smalley of Bloomington, Mary (husband, Herb) Ward of Irving, TX, Kathy (husband, Ray) Merrill of Havana; in addition to several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Family will receive friends from 5:00-8:00 p.m. on Monday, January 26, 2009 at Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. A funeral ceremony will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 27, 2009 at Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home with Vaughn Beeman officiating. Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery with military honors provided by the Interveterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor's choice.