Charles "Chuck" R. Fry

Charles R. “Chuck” Fry, 68, of Monmouth, IL, passed away on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at his home surrounded by his family after a brave yearlong battle with cancer.

Chuck was born on May 3, 1955, in Galesburg, IL, the son of Robert L. and Wilma “Nellie” (Huffman) Fry.   He was raised and educated in Monmouth, graduating from Monmouth High School in 1973. Chuck attended Monmouth College for one year and later graduated from Worsham College of Mortuary Science in Chicago, IL.

Chuck married Ann Arthur on December 2, 1978 in Monmouth, IL and she survives.

Chuck started his career in funeral service at Turnbull Funeral Home in Monmouth as an apprentice funeral director & embalmer, he then worked at Hanley Funeral Home in Pekin, IL, and finally, Hurley Funeral Home in Havana, IL.  Chuck moved back to Monmouth to work alongside his brother, Bill, at Center Stage. Later, Chuck and his wife, Ann, renovated and opened Filling Station # 3 and proudly “served over a million people” over 16 years in Monmouth.  In 2002, Chuck and Ann opened Traditional Amish Hardwoods furniture store and are celebrating 22 years of service to the Monmouth community this year.  Chuck served as the President of the United Way Board of Directors in 1992-1993 in Monmouth.  He was an avid bike rider and enjoyed working out.  Chuck loved his German Shepherds.  Most of all, Chuck loved to spend time with his family, especially his children.  

Surviving Chuck is his wife of 45 years, Ann Fry of Monmouth, IL; his daughter, Katie A. (Cari) Novak of Monmouth, IL; his son, Jim Fry of Champaign, IL; his sister-in-Law, LuAnn Fry of Monmouth, IL; two nieces, Gena (Josh) Hasten of Monmouth, IL and Jenny Fry of Galesburg, IL.  Also surviving are several great nieces, great nephews, cousins, and his beloved German Shepherd, Kai.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, William L.R. Fry, and four other beloved German Shepherds.

A Gathering of Family and Friends will be from 2:00-4:00 p.m., Saturday, March 30, 2024 at McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth.   Cremation rites have been accorded.   Memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society Hope Lodge -Iowa City, IA or the Western Illinois Animal Rescue and can be sent to the funeral home.