Charles Thomas Rados

Following in his father Frank's footsteps, Chuck began his working life as a postal carrier in Wilmette, Illinois, and Phoenix, Arizona. In 1967, he graduated from DeVry Technical Institute, where he studied communications. He later joined JEOLCO, a Japanese scientific instrument company, gaining national recognition for his expertise in sophisticated microscopes. His work took him across the country servicing and repairing these systems, primarily in hospitals, while also providing sales and training.

Chuck's technical expertise and creativity led him to Space Rentals, where he designed large mobile facilities for hospitals, schools, and the United States Navy. His career brought him to Jacksonville, Florida, where he raised his children, Tom and Bethany. He later joined Scotty's, earning the Million-Dollar Sales Award in 1984 for his exceptional kitchen designs. He continued his cabinetry career until retiring from Canac Kitchens. Known for his precision, Chuck took pride in designs that never wasted a millimeter of space.

Chuck could envision almost anything and then draw, design, and build it. His elaborate Halloween and Christmas decorations became neighborhood attractions, including a fully functioning theatrical guillotine. He brought that same creativity to his Christian faith, serving behind the scenes in the third-grade Sunday School ministry at First Baptist Church of Jacksonville. Whether handling administrative tasks, creating his memorable “JESUS” plaques, or building realistic crucifixion artifacts, Chuck found meaningful ways to bring Bible stories to life for children.

Trains were Chuck's lifelong passion and a special connection with his son, Tom. When Tom was two, Chuck built him a Lionel train set, beginning years of elaborate layouts and shared adventures. In 1977, a Jacksonville newspaper featured Chuck's full-sized replica steam train car built for Tom. Even retirement couldn't keep him away from trains. He operated a mall train in his conductor's uniform and later drove the train at the Jacksonville Zoo, delighting passengers with his own narration along the route.

With his daughter, Bethany, Chuck shared a love of Christmas movies—the sappier the Hallmark movie, the better. He also took her on special daddy-daughter dates, showing her by example the kindness and respect she deserved from future suitors.

Chuck never met a stranger and was rarely without a joke or sarcastic remark. One of his grandchildren's favorite memories was his habit of carrying a small piece of rope while shopping. At checkout, he would show it to the cashier and announce that he was “near the end of his rope.” His quick wit and legendary dad jokes became a family tradition.

Behind the humor was a generous heart. Chuck never hesitated to help someone in need, asking only what needed to be done. His kindness extended beyond family, turning friendships into lifelong bonds built not by blood, but by love. His legacy lives on in the things he created, the memories he made, and the many lives he touched.

Chuck was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Adeline Rados.

He is survived by his brother, Jerry Rados; his son and daughter-in-law, Tom and Rachel Rados; his daughter and son-in-law, Bethany and Freddie DeRocco; his three grandchildren, Katlyn, Mackenzie, and Trace; and four great-grandchildren.

Chuck's greatest joy was his grandchildren, whom he loved dearly and doted on endlessly.

A Celebration of Life honoring Chuck will be held on January 30, 2027, at Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home (Mandarin) in Jacksonville, Florida. The service will be officiated by Darrell Courtney, a cherished family friend who considered Chuck a father figure. A catered reception will follow at the funeral home, where family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and celebrate Chuck's life. Please contact the funeral home for service times and additional details.