Charles M. Kraft

Charles M. Kraft, age 88, formerly of Oquawka, Illinois; passed away at the Heritage Manor Care Center in Normal, Illinois on Saturday Oct.25th. Charles was born on June 11, 1920 in Iola, Kansas and is the son of Warren C. and Nellie O. Shoopman Kraft. He was raised in Dunlap, Illinois where he attended public schools and graduated from Dunlap High School. He then entered service and the Marine Corp serving as Corporal in the 3rd Marine Division from 1942 to 1946. He married Betty J. Smith on August 17, 1946 in Peoria, Illinois. Charles farmed many years in Peoria and McLean Counties and was selected as "Outstanding Young Farmer"in 1956. He retired from farming in 1983 and then moved to Oquawka, Illinois where he was employed at Wandell Nursery until 1988. He then operated the Oquawka Prop Shop with Robert Leas, Sr. and Robert Leas, Jr. through 1995. Charles was a member of the Oquawka Eagles Aerie and member of the former Henderson County V.F.W. Post. He currently is a member of Post 2602 Veterans of Foreign Wars in Peoria Heights . Charles enjoyed hunting and fishing, flea markets, and parades. He also restored many an old tractor as a hobby. Surviving Charles is his wife Betty of Normal, Illinois; His Son Stephen M. Kraft (Marilyn) of Normal, Illinois. A granddaughter Elizabeth A. Kraft and Grandson Andrew J. Kraft (Diane), all in Bloomington, Illinois. A Great Granddaughter Ella June Charlotte Kraft in Bloomington, also survives. A Number of Nieces and Nephews also survive. He was preceded in his death by his Parents Services:A memorial service for Charles is planned on Thursday October 30, 2008 at 1:00 p.m. at Swan Lake Memorial Garden Chapel. Military honors and interment of his ashes will be accorded. No visitation hours are being planned . A memorial fund is being established for the benefit of his Great Granddaughter Ella June Charlotte Kraft. Turnbull Funeral Home in Monmouth, Illinois is in charge of the arrangements.