Chuck Edelblute, beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend and neighbor, 84, of Glen Carbon, IL, passed away February 1, 2021.

Chuck was the cherished husband of Barbara (Morton) Edelblute.  Loving father of Scott (Brenda) Edelblute of Las Vegas, NV, Sue (Mark) Hartman of Gobles, MI, Matt (Eileen) Mueller of Wellington, New Zealand and Andy (Jennifer) Mueller of Los Angeles.  He was precious grandfather to Luke and Noah Hartman, Matt Edelblute, Mercedes Inga, LeeAnn Higa, Owen, Edie, Andrew and Kate Mueller.  He was "Grandpa Great" to Serenity, Daniel, Marlee, Emma, Johnny and Shannon.

Chuck was born in Marengo, Ohio, on September 11, 1936, one of nine children.  He is survived by two brothers: Jim (Judy) Edelblute of Starkville, MS and Joe (Claire) Edelblute of Jupiter, FL.  and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Donnabelle and Lester Edelblute and his siblings Mary, Dick, George, Christina, Judy and Pam.

After high school graduation, Chuck joined the Marines which took him to Japan for 18 months.  He was a topographical surveyor.  Chuck was a tool and die maker and an electrician before he settled in on his life's career as a photographer, in Kalamazoo, Michigan.  When the opportunity came to buy and build his own Lifetouch National School Studios business in Southern Illinois, Chuck accepted the challenge.

Chuck and Barb were partners in their photography business in Southern Illinois.  They grew the business into the major school photography company in the area.  They worked together tirelessly for many years.

Chuck was a member of St. John's Methodist Church in Edwardsville, IL for 37 years, where he and Barb were Youth Group leaders for many years.  Chuck was a fixture at the Edwardsville YMCA where he became fast friends with everyone there. Keeping physically fit brought him great joy.

When Chuck and Barb retired, they started traveling the world. Barb, with her camera, and Chuck as her Sherpa; they went wherever Barb dreamed of photo ops.  Adventure was in their blood.  They traveled to all the states.  They went to New Zealand many times. They joined ecological groups and went to all seven continents.  They photographed the polar bears in the Arctic Circle to the penguins in Antarctica and all things in between.

Chuck enjoyed cooking in the kitchen with Barb. Some thought they ran a charming "Bed and Breakfast" for their many guests.

Chuck and Barb became award winning gardeners, picking up sticks and chasing away moles in pursuit of a beautiful yard.  Their gardens were on the Glen Carbon garden tour.  They won the G.L.E.N. award many times.  Their backyard gazebo was site of many special occasions.  Chuck was the king of the neighborhood on his dearly loved John Deere tractor.

For many years, Chuck enjoyed the camaraderie that his love for his motorcycle brought him.  He and his buddies enjoyed great trips, near and far. The lucky ones in Chuck's life were invited to hop on the back for a fun loop around town.

Chuck will be remembered for his infectious smile and a laugh loved by everyone who knew him.  Kids loved him and called him "Chukker."  He was fun, funny and fun-loving.  Chuck had a big, generous heart.  Together with Barb, they supported many in need. Chuck remained a father figure through the years to countless young people.  After spending time with Chuck, one couldn't help but feel extraordinary. Chuck's super power was to love.  To know Chuck was to love him.

In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to St. John's UCM Church, 7372 Marine Road, Edwardsville, IL 62025

Chuck's family invites you to share a memory and photos at: chuck-edelblute.forevermissed.com

No memorial service will be held for Chuck at this time: a celebration of life will be scheduled when public health concerns subside.