- Date Of Birth: August 18, 1924
- Date Of Death: May 27, 2021
- State: Illinois
Charles A. Balles, age 96 of Freeport, IL, passed away on Thursday, May 27, 2021 at Ascension Living Saint Joseph Center in Freeport. He was born August 18, 1924, the son of the late Frederick and Anna (Mulhall) Balles. He proudly served in the United States Army Air Force from 1943 to 1946. Charles married the love of his life, Mona Raab, on November 30, 1946. They were married for 70 years. Mona passed away on February 22, 2017.
Chuck retired from Leath Furniture in downtown Freeport after a successful career of over 30 years. He was born and raised in Freeport. He absolutely loved his hometown and possessed an encyclopedic knowledge of the history of the downtown businesses and surrounding areas. He treasured the time spent with family and friends. Chuck never missed an event. Whether it was a birthday, graduation or a ball game, you could always count on Chuck and Mona being there with glowing smiles on their faces. He also loved working with his hands. He was a skillful craftsman and woodworker, and especially enjoyed restoring bicycles. He was a legacy member of Harmony United Methodist Church in Freeport. His past memberships included RSVP, Antique Engine Club and Freeport Campers Club. Chuck will undoubtedly be remembered most for his big heart, charismatic personality, storytelling ability and for the pride and love he had for his family.
He is survived by his children, Linda (James) Fowler of Rockford, Frederick (Debbie) Balles of Freeport and Laurie (Vern) Mills of Freeport; 7 grandchildren: Melissa (Terry) Sheehan of Freeport, Angela Penticoff of Dodgeville, WI, Joshua (Tiffany) Mills of Sycamore, Justin Mills (Danialla Schreiber) of Forreston, Kurt Balles of Freeport, Joseph (Jenny) Mills of Mahomet and Charity Fowler of Rockford and 15 great grandchildren and 1 great great granddaughter. Charles was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Mona, his sister Gertrude Pitney, and his brother Floyd Balles.
