Charles Edward Murphy

Charles Edward Murphy, 65, of Streator entered the gates of Heaven on March 13, 2019.  Charles was born May 22, 1953 to James and Betty (Woods) Murphy in Gary, Indiana.  Charles married Karen Brickert on May 23, 1979 until her passing on September 13, 2014.

Charles loved to learn and was educated at Eastridge High School in Kankakee, Olivet Nazarene University and Illinois Valley Community College. Charles chose to serve the country he loved in the United States Army. His love for biology and science led him to a career in chemistry and then nursing.  Charles was a gentle giant who loved his family, his friends, his Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears.  He will be remembered as someone who never met a stranger, his belly giggling laugh and his ability to share stories.  He will also be remembered as a true Mama’s boy who spoke to his Mom daily.  Charles loved old movies, history (especially military), all things John Wayne and cooking. 

Charles was survived by his Mother, his “kids” that he was incredibly proud of Brandy, Margaret, Sean, Matthew, Charles, Joseph and Robin. His future daughter-in-law Sydney. His brothers Don (Katie), Kenny (Cindy), Gary and Terry.  His sisters Myrtle (Lornell) and Ann (Sam), his mother-in-law Barb Brickert, his brother-in-law’s; Jerry, David (Linda), Randy (Gayle) and Ed (Lisa). Sister-in-law Wendy (Gerald), his aunt Nicy and numerous nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his loving wife Karen, his son Michael, his father James, his step-father Hubert Marshall, his brother James Jr. and his father-in-law Herb Brickert.

Friends are family are welcome to celebrate Charles life on Saturday March 23, 2019.  Visitation will be from 9am-11am at Morning Star Baptist Church, 570 N Harrison Ave, Kankakee, IL with a service starting at 11am.  Burial will be at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois. 

Memorials may be directed to the family of Charles Murphy.