Charles "Chuck" J. Carlson

Charles J. “Chuck” Carlson, born September 17, 1942, in Rockford, Illinois, passed away on June 30, 2026, at the age of 83 after a short illness. Chuck grew up in Rockford and graduated from East High School, Class of 1960. He married Noel on July 3, 1968, after meeting her on a blind date the previous Halloween. In 1979, he moved his family from his childhood home on 24th Street to Cherry Valley.

Chuck’s love for the outdoors began early. In August 1946, just before his fourth birthday, his family vacationed at Norway Pines Resort on Big Bear Lake in Webb Lake, Wisconsin — a place that would shape the rest of his life. In 1967, he purchased a piece of property from the resort, lovingly known as “Carlson’s Hide‑A‑Way,” which remains in the family today. Chuck, along with friends and family, spent many hours transforming the land into the beautiful property it is today — cutting down countless trees, carving out a driveway, and shaping the grounds with the same determination he brought to every part of his life. It became a cherished gathering place for family and friends.

He enjoyed snowmobiling, hunting, camping, fishing, ice fishing, archery, drag racing, and cars. He was a member of the Blackhawk Archery Club, and Chuck was a mentor to many, generously sharing his skills, time, and knowledge. He was also a great storyteller who remembered every detail of every story like it was yesterday.

Chuck was an avid reader and a lifelong learner, especially drawn to health, medical science, and history. He devoured articles and books — often with a well‑worn Reader’s Digest or Bottom Line Health resting on his bed — and he never stopped learning or sharing what he discovered. He was always eager to understand how things worked, whether in the body or the world. Chuck was a true craftsman in every sense — able to build something from nothing, invent solutions no one else could see, and repair just about anything he touched. He was also a collector at heart, gathering unique treasures — antiques, knives, lanterns, fishing poles, skeleton keys, and the many animal and fish mounts he proudly displayed — collections that reflected his curiosity and passions.

Professionally, Chuck was an entrepreneur in every sense — working in autobody repair, managing numerous rental properties throughout Rockford, operating the family cabin in Wisconsin as a vacation rental, and even refinishing furniture and selling his restored pieces on eBay. His work ethic began early — starting in second grade with a paper route and helping hand tools to mechanics at the local Texaco station. During junior high and high school, he did side work for Swan Hillman and several of the Doctor Seversons, caring for their ponds, aquariums, and various odd jobs.

Over the years, he held many jobs, including Brad’s Automotive & Transmission, Hawthorn Aquarium, Genrich & Harris Auto Sales, Dodge City, Mattson Machine Works, East Rockford Body Shop, and eventually his own business, Chuck’s Auto Refinishing.

He attended Faith Wesleyan Church and was an early member of Broadway Covenant Church. In recent weeks, he mentioned being ready to walk with Jesus, and this seemed to bring him peace.

Chuck is survived by his children, Theresa M. “Traci” (Matt) Wagaman and Matthew C. Carlson; and by his beloved grandchildren, Owen Wagaman, Sarah Carlson, and Ella Carlson. He is also survived by his sisters Lilian Johnson, Bonnie Christenssen, and Connie Kurth, along with many nieces and nephews spanning four generations, and many friends — especially his best friend of 53 years, Greg Schwanke. He especially cherished time spent with his grandchildren, whether sharing stories, teaching them something new, or simply enjoying their company.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank J. & Charlotte Carlson; his wife, Noel E. Carlson; his brother Herb Carlson; and sisters Loretta Lundberg and Margaret Marcus, as well as several brothers‑in‑law and sisters‑in‑law whom he loved dearly, and close friends Kenny Wallin and Toby Payne.

Visitation will be held at Sunset Funeral Home, 8800 N Alpine Rd, Machesney Park, IL 61115 on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM with a service led by Reverend Jaci McNeil at 11:00 AM. Interment immediately following the service.

Chuck’s legacy lives on in the generations he nurtured, the memories made at Carlson’s Hide‑A‑Way, and the many lives he touched through work, mentorship, and friendships.