Charles E. Wells

Marion- Charles E. “Chick” “Chuck” Wells, 84, of Marion, formerly of Johnston City and California, died at, 3:00 AM, Friday, August 21, 2015 at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, MO. Charles was born on New Year’s Eve 1930 in West Frankfort to Charles M. and Wanda (Westray) Wells.  He married his wife of 48 years, Valeria “Bobbie” James, on February 25, 1967 in Carson City, NV.  She survives of Marion. He graduated Johnston City High School in 1949 and served his country honorable while enlisted in US Army during the Korean War.  He was stationed and Germany and served as a mechanic and welder in the motor-pool.  He and some fellows from his battalion were able to travel Europe on furlough a couple of times.  He loved the German people. Upon discharge he returned to California and began his career as a tool and die maker which he loved and learned much from.  He decided to return to his roots in 1966 with his children and parents. Because of the family love of clothing and fashion, they opened Wells California Clothes and it was a part of the family for 45 years. Chuck enjoyed hunting and fishing all his life, in Southern Illinois and California.  Swimming, boating and even water skiing were always a good time for him with living at Lake of Egypt for 32 years. Those who knew him also knew his 2nd love in life (after his family) was automobiles.  It is estimated that Chuck owned well over 200 cars in his lifetime.   Buying, fixing, selling, driving and showing cars was more of a passion than a pastime for him. He loved people, talking and getting to know them and have them as friends meant so much.  He loved life and always made the best of it, whatever came his way.  He will be dearly missed by many. Survivors include- Wife- Bobbie Wells of Marion Daughter- Sabrina Yearack and husband Tim of Marion Son- Larry Wells and wife Katie of University Place, WA Grandchild- Brandon Yearack of Carterville Grandchild- Jason Wells of Johnston City Great Grandchildren- Josie Wells and Nolan Yearack Brother- Bobby Dene Wells and wife Linda of Bakersfield, CA He was preceded in death by his parents, grandchild- Elisha Yearack and one brother- Billy Gene Wells. The funeral service will be held at 7:00 PM, Monday, August 24, 2015 at Blue Funeral Home in Marion.  Rev. Don Colson will officiate.  Military rites will be performed at the Blue Funeral Home parking lot by the Herrin VFW and American Legion Posts with assistance from the Illinois National Guard.  A private inurnment will be held at a later date at Rose Hill Cemetery in Marion.   A visitation will be held from 5:00 PM until time of service, Monday, at the funeral home. Memorial donations are suggested to Hospice of Southern Illinois or the American Heart Association and will be accepted at Blue Funeral Home/ 1704 N. Court/ Marion, IL   62959.  For more information or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit www.bluefuneralhome.com.