Charles Leo Stark

Charles (Charlie) Leo Stark, 88, of Collison, IL, passed away on Sunday, November 12, 2023, at Carle Hospital, while surrounded by his family.

Charles was born on 01/11/1935 in Perrysville, Missouri, to Lily Mae Ray and William Lawson. He was the youngest of 13 children.

Charles served in the Army from 1959-1961 and served in one of the first Nike-Hercules nuclear-capable missile batteries in the United States near San Francisco, California. His favorite story from his time in the Army was when he was challenged to penetrate the perimeter security of the base. He successfully made it through the fences, sentries, roving patrols, and guard dogs without being detected. His superior officers were less than amused by his success.

After serving in the Army, Charles worked at the Universal Bleacher Company in Champaign, IL for 29 years, reaching the level of Plant Superintendent. He then ventured into entrepreneurship by opening Savoy Storage in Savoy, IL. which was a mini-storage and truck rental facility. He began investing in farmland in the 1980’s, mainly in Vermilion County, IL.  eventually founding the Collison Branch Ranch in Collison, IL., He did his best, but could never find a piece of land that he did not like.

Charles was an avid fisherman and hunter, especially with his English Setter, Beau.

Charles married Linda Gillenwater on 09/13/1987.

Charles is survived by his wife, Linda, his children, Lisa Dean, Keith Stark, Karen (Scott) Dillman, and Glenn (Cindy) Stark; two stepchildren, Warren (Trish) Gillenwater and Brenda Bickers. 10 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren, and many friends.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents and all of his siblings.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.

The visitation will be on Monday, November 20, from 4p.m. to 6p.m. at Owens Funeral Home, 101 N. Elm Street, in Champaign, IL., followed by the funeral service at 6:00.

The burial will be a private ceremony on Tuesday, November 21, at Woodlawn Cemetery, Urbana, IL.

Condolences may be offered at www.owensfuneralhomes.com

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