Charles J. "Junior" Tish

Charles J. "Junior" Tish, 72, of Springfield, passed away on Sunday, January 25, 2009 at St. John's Hospice. Charles was born on September 9, 1936 in St. Elmo, the son of Pearl and Erma Larimore Tish. After serving his country in the United States Army, Charles dedicated himself to the food industry, retiring from MJ Kellner in Springfield after 32 years of service. At home, Charles enjoyed working in the yard. He was an avid Illinois football and basketball fan and a lifelong fan of the St. Louis Cardinals. He also enjoyed fishing, hunting, and loved to dance. He was a member of First United Methodist Church, SERTOMA, and was a little league baseball coach for many years. Preceding Charles in death are his sister, Evelyn Piper; and his parents. He is survived by his significant other, Lindi Gibson of Springfield; his son, Scott (wife, Jane) Tish of Chatham; his daughters, Danda (husband, Dennis) Tish Beard of Champaign, Kiley Gibson of St. Louis, MO, and Lauren Gibson of Springfield; three grandchildren, Kale and Zane Tish, and Andrew Beard; his brother, Dean (wife, Delores) Tish of Decatur; several other loving family members. Cremation will be accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center. Family will receive friends for a memorial gathering from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 28, 2009 at Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. A memorial ceremony will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 29, 2009 at Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home with Rev. Robert Snider officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery with military honors provided by the United States Army. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 687 E. Linton Ave., Springfield, IL 62703.