Charles Elas Whitehead

Charles E. "Chuck" Whitehead, 78, of Peoria, passed away on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at Carle Health Methodist Hospital. Born in Pryor, OK, on March 23, 1948, he was the son of the late William "Whitey" and Bertie (Broadstone) Whitehead. Following graduation, he enlisted in the US Air Force and proudly served until he was honorably discharged as Chief Master Sergeant. On August 4, 1968, he married Vicki L. Schneider.

Surviving are his wife, Vicki Whitehead; children, Chad (Jennifer) Whitehead, Robyn (Tracy) Bowling, and Sabrina (Richard) Bishop; ten grandchildren, Emma (Matt), Ethan (Reagan), Tristan, Terron, Isaiah, Elijah, Cody, Maddyson, Avery, and Oliver; and six great grandchildren; all of whom he loved fiercely. Aside from his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, William "Dick" Whitehead, Jr.

He started working for the Illinois Air National Guard, and transitioned to Caterpillar. Following his employment at Caterpillar, he worked for the State of IL at Zeller Mental Health Center, where he retired. He also retired from the Illinois Air National Guard with over 26 years of service. Following retirement, he began his own trucking company with his daughter, Robyn, called "CRS Trucking". He was a lifelong runner and enjoyed watching NASCAR.

Visitation will take place on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at Davison-Fulton Bartonville Chapel, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Additional visitation will take place on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at Christ Lutheran Church, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Maple Ridge Cemetery with full military honors. Memorial contributions can be made to Christ Lutheran Church. Condolences and memories may be shared through Davison-Fulton-BartonvilleChapel.com