Charles R Witzel

Charles Witzel, 88, of Irvington passed away Friday, February 21, 2025, at Missouri Baptist Hospital in St. Louis, MO. He was born on October 27, 1936, the son of Harold and Martha (Rodatz) Witzel in Cravat, IL. He married Virginia Payne on November 29, 1958, at Mount Catherine Church in Woodlawn, and she survives him in Irvington.

Along with his beloved wife of 66 wonderful years, survivors that will remember Charles as a protective, family man include his son, Roger Witzel of Irvington; daughter, Kathy (Marlin) Madsen of Rochelle; grandchildren, Erin Sherill of Pecatonica, IL, Eric (Margot) Witzel of Kirkland, IL, and Ian Witzel of Irvington, IL; great-grandchildren, Madison, Scott, and Shawna; and nephews, Tim, Steve, Jim and Dave Williamson.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Carolyn Williamson; son, Scott Witzel; and his daughter-in-law, Becky Witzel.

Charles was an United States veteran, who served his country with honor and pride. He was hard working and a loyal employee of Caterpillar until his retirement. Charles was one of the St. Louis Cardinal’s biggest fans, cheering them on from the comfort of his recliner. He enjoyed college basketball on television and catching the action of local high school basketball teams. He enjoyed the process of woodworking, creating beautiful pieces by hand and liked to restore furniture back to their original luster. He took solace in the beauty of the outdoors, finding peace while fishing at his family’s pond, catching crappie, blue gill and bass. Charles was a man of honor, well respected, kind and considerate of others. His family and friends will deeply miss him but never forget the impact knowing him had on their lives.

A celebration of life service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at Fouts Christian Church in Centralia with Pastor Jerry Wilson. Interment will follow at Fouts Cemetery. Friends and relatives are welcome to a visitation time from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service on Wednesday at the church. Memorials may be made in Charles’ honor to Fouts Christian Church and will be accepted for the family at the Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Centralia. Online condolences and memories of Charles may be shared with the family by visiting maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page.

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