Obituary of Charles L. Edwards

Charles L. Edwards, 76, of Zion, IL passed away peacefully, yet unexpectedly, on Monday, June 14, 2021. Charles was born July 18, 1944 in Fergus Falls, MN to Edward and Olga Edwards. He grew up in Bluffton, MN and at the age of 18 he joined the United States Navy. While stationed in Newfoundland he met the love of his life, Margaret Griffin. They married on February 20, 1968 in Freshwater, Newfoundland and together they shared 53 years of marriage. Charles was an avid reader of westerns; he enjoyed fishing, playing golf and bowling. One summer month out of every year he returned to MN to fish with his brothers. His family lovingly referred to him as, ‘a quiet man of simple pleasures’. Charles dedicated himself to his country; he was a true patriot. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy retiring after 20 years of service. He became a civilian instructor at Great Lakes Naval Training Center until his retirement. Charles was also a member of the Winthrop Harbor VFW for many years. Charles is survived by his wife, Margaret; daughter, Pamela (Wayne) Leonard of Newfoundland; grandchildren, Katrina (Charlie) Rye of Waukesha, WI, Cory Leonard of Newfoundland; and siblings, Sharon Arends of Alexandria, MN, Sue Richards of Kenosha, WI, Lee (Linda) Edwards of Bluffton, MN, Danny (Adrienne) Edwards of King, WI, and Paul (Michele) Edwards of Brainard, MN. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Olga Edwards; and sister, Jane Stark of Bluffton, MN. No services are planned for Charles at this time.