Charles Robert Griffin, lovingly known as “Chuck” to many, passed away on June 1, 2026, at the age of 85. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories filled with laughter, music, family, and a sense of humor that could brighten any room.

Charles was preceded in death by his beloved wife, with whom he shared 62 wonderful years of marriage after they were united on December 20, 1961. He was also preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, and two cherished grandsons, Christopher Griffin and Levi Yaggy.

He is survived by his children, Susan and her husband Stan Slagle, and Ralf and his wife Becky Bastian; his sister, Sharlet; three grandchildren; one great-grandchild; two great-great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss him dearly.

Charles spent 35 years working for the City of Springfield in Sewer Maintenance, where he led four crews and earned the respect of those who worked alongside him. While he took pride in his career, his true passion was music. A talented musician, Charles could play just about any instrument with strings. He performed in several country-western bands, including his beloved group, Chuck Griffin and the Sundowners. Music was a family affair, as his wife often joined him singing and playing guitar, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

A man of many interests, Charles was a HAM radio operator who enjoyed Morse code, a Freemason and Shriner, an avid hunter and fisherman, and someone who felt most at home at the lake. Whether he was fishing, relaxing by the water, or simply enjoying the outdoors with family and friends, the lake was one of his favorite places to be. Some of his happiest moments were spent there, making memories with those he loved most.

Those who knew Charles will remember him as soft-hearted yet stern when necessary, always ready with advice-whether you wanted it or not. He was the family’s biggest cut-up, constantly teasing, joking, and finding ways to make people laugh. He was known for measuring the reach of his cane to make sure he could still swat at family members from a distance, and if his coffee cup happened to be empty, he’d tap it on the table and announce that something was clearly wrong with it.

Charles was a legendary checkers and Monopoly player, a proud veteran who served as a Combat Engineer, and a man who loved taking things apart to see how they worked. He enjoyed putting things back together and, as family members would tell you, occasionally blowing them up. He was fascinated by survival gear and hobbies of every kind. Family members often joked that Charles would enthusiastically buy everything needed for a hobby, whether or not he ever got around to actually doing it. As he liked to prove, he may not have been built for survival, but his survival kit certainly was.

Above all, Charles loved his family. He and his wife did everything together, sharing a bond that remained the center of his life. He treasured time spent with his children, grandchildren, and extended family, especially when it involved a trip to the lake, good conversation, and plenty of laughter. His love, humor, wisdom, and unforgettable personality leave a legacy that will continue through the generations he cherished so deeply.

Charles will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever loved.

Care has been entrusted to Greenlawn Funeral Home North.