Charles "Chuck" Black

CHARLES W. BLACK

     Charles "Chuck" Black, 91, of Crystal Lake, Illinois died April 18, 2026. He came into the world on February 24, 1935 the son of Claude and Ethyl Black. Chuck grew up in the Thumb of Michigan, where his values of faith, hard work, and an unshakeable love for people were shaped.

     Following a brief time at Adrian College, he served in the U.S. Army by participating in post-World War II rebuilding efforts abroad. Chuck returned home, earned his business degree in Bay City, and built a steady career as an accountant. He met Janet Kreh, fell in love with her and her family, and they married June 24, 1961. Together, they poured themselves into their faith, family, and community.

     Chuck was known for his smile and love of people. Together with Janet, they attended and served the Saginaw Wesleyan Church and then Real Life Nazarene Church in Crystal Lake, Illinois. They were both involved in Foster Parents and fostered many children throughout the years. They also held positions in the National Foster Parent Organization. Chuck and Janet developed lifelong friends both in the churches they attended and in the Foster Parents organization.

     Chuck leaves behind his sister, Janet Dickson VanTol; as well as, daughters: Sarah “Sally” Cronk, Susan Caudell (Carl Sparks), and Sandie Black (Ray Gibbs). Six grandchildren: Matthew, Monica (Kyle), Wayne (Wellida), Justin, Gina (Patrick), and Cheyenne; Step-grandchildren: David, Ashley, Cheyanna, and Cayla; great-grandchildren: Stanley, Amelia, Hailey, Chloe, Liam, Michael, and Veronica. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Stanley Neal; his granddaughter, Megan and his beloved wife, Janet.

     His memory also lives on in the lives of his many brothers and sisters-in- law, nieces, nephews and the extended family he treasured. Ninety-one years is a gift. Chuck used every one of them well. His absence leaves a real and lasting hole, but so does the kindness he modeled and the lives he quietly shaped. That kind of legacy doesn't fade.

     Funeral service held 3:00 pm Friday, April 24, 2026 in Kranz Funeral Home, Cass City with Pastor Ed Kreh officiating. Interment in Elkland Township Cemetery. Military honors conducted by the U.S. Army Honor Guard and Cass City V.F.W. Post # 3644.

                Visitation:  2:00 pm to 3:00 pm Friday, April 24, 2026 in Kranz Funeral Home, Cass City