Charles Cronkhite

Charles C. Cronkhite, 90, of Danville joined the Lord at 6:00 am Sunday, September 21, 2008 at the VA Illiana Health Care Systems in Danville. Charlie Cliff was born December 9, 1917 in Fithian, Illinois. He was the son of the late Chester C. and Leafy (Shutt) Cronkhite. Charlie graduated from Oakwood High School in 1935, during the tumult of the Great Depression. He enrolled in the Civilian Conservation Corps. From there he worked as a cook at the Wolford Hotel in Danville, where he met his wife Vivian Rupert. Charles was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1941. He served in Iceland and the European Theater from 1941-1945 culminating at the Battle of the Bulge, where he was wounded in battle and evacuated into England until wars end. Charlie married he sweetheart Vivian after a 3-year absence. They were married 58 years. He worked as a Food Supervisor at the Danville VA Hospital for 38 years until retiring in 1982. Charlie was a member of Anchor Lodge #980 in Danville. He also was a 32nd Degree Mason. He received a meritorious service award while helping present the degrees in Danville Scottish Rite. Charlie also belonged to American Legion Post #210, VFW #728, and N.A.R.F.E. He was a member of the Second Church of Christ where he was baptized at the age of 89. Charlie loved to play golf. In 1986, he got a hole in one. He also enjoyed bowling, working puzzles, playing with his children & grandchildren. He loved helping others. His greatest love was his family, particularly his grandchildren. Charlie was preceded in death by his wife Vivian in 2004 and his six brothers: Wilber, Elton, Ivan, Gene, John, and grandson Michael Hastings. He is survived by his son: Gene (Mary) Hastings of Danville; daughter: Sandy Koerner of Sedona, AZ; grandchildren: Linda (Greg) Scott, David (Susan) Hastings, Scott (Kelly) Hastings, Jodi Koerner, Major Kevin (Sarin) Koerner. He leaves behind great grandchildren Joshua Copas, Jennifer Lyons, Kyle Hastings, Gina Koerner, Alexandra Hastings, Kirk Hastings, Jori Hastings, Roby Hastings, and Anna Koerner. He had three great-great grandchildren Gage Copas, Kayden Lyons, and Gatlin Copas; a sister Eunice Casey; nieces Cheryl (David) Albers and Debbie (Brian) Stine and a special nephew Leland (Beki) Cronkhite. A Celebration of Charles Life will be held at 10:00 am, Wednesday, September 24, 2008 at Sunset Funeral Home & Cremation Center 3940 N. Vermilion St. Danville, IL with Pastor Drew Mentzer officiating. Visitation will be held from 4-7 pm Tuesday evening at the funeral home, with Masonic Rites held by Anchor Lodge #728 at 7:30 pm. Following the service, he will be laid to rest at Danville National Cemetery with Military Honors preformed by the American Legion Post #210. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Second Church of Christ. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com