Charles Vavrus

Charles (Charlie) Vavrus, Sr., age 84, entered eternal life on Sunday, June 29, 2014 with his loving family by his side. Charlie was born in South Chicago Heights, IL, and graduated from Bloom Township High School. He attended the University of Illinois and graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics. Charlie served in the Korean War before starting his career in the Joliet area managing farms. He became a land developer of single-family homes and apartments forming the Barr-Vavrus partnership before venturing on his own as Vavrus and Associates. He developed, built, and managed over 8,000 apartment units in five states. With a strong commitment and passion for exercise and fitness, Charlie opened the first Charlie Club in Joliet in 1978. A pioneer in the practice and business of fitness, he ultimately opened and operated five more health clubs in Illinois and Texas. In the late 1970s Charlie branched into cattle ranching with the purchase of two large ranches in south Florida. He retired on Singer Island in Palm Beach County where he enjoyed walking the Blue Heron Bridge and swimming in his pool. Charlie is survived by his beloved wife of 17 years, Judith Freund Vavruss (nee Freund); loving children Charles (Maureen) Vavrus, Jr. and Michele Krohn; cherished grandchildren, Charles, William, Elise, David, and Nathaniel Krohn, and Cullan, Colette, and Cayley Vavrus; dear brother, Gus (Hallie) Vavrus, dear sister, Emily (John) Zaber; and numerous loving nieces, nephews, and in-laws. He is preceded in death by his parents, Stefan and Katerina (nee Butora) Vavrus; brothers Joseph, Anthony, and Sylvester; sisters Katy, Mary, Agnes, and Patsy; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.