Charles “Charlie” Dean Gentz passed away on September 25th, 2024 at his home.
Charles was born in Fairfield, Illinois on June 29, 1959 to James and Floydene Gentz. He married Pam on March 12, 1994 and they shared 30 years of marriage together.
Charlie was a lifelong Farmer and Truck Driver, owning and operating Gentz Trucking and the family farm, Gentz Farms. Charlie was staple at many West Salem events. He spent many years as head of the West Salem Chowder, donating more than just his time. He was member of West Salem Masonic Lodge 866, as well as Ainad Motor Patrol, York Rite Bodies, Hillbilly Shriners, and Wayne County Shrine Club. He was also a member of the West Salem Rural Fire Board.
A friend to all, Charlie will be remembered for his infectious smile, laugh and his quick wit.
Charlie is survived by his mother Floydene; his wife, Pam; four children Nathan (Kayla) Gentz, Libby (Jason) Bunting, John McDowell and Calvin Gentz; seven grandchildren, Maddie, Natalie, Aiden, Gavin, Olivia, Remi and Quinn; sister Marcia (Bob) Shelby; two nephews Luke (Hannah) Shelby, Caleb (Andrea) Shelby; several great nieces and nephews and many friends.
He was proceeded in death by his father, James Gentz.
Visitation will be held Monday, September 30, from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at the West Salem Fire Department. Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m. and burial will follow at Macedonia Cemetery in rural West Salem, Illinois. Please dress casually, as Charlie would appreciate casual dress.
Donations may be made in honor of Charles Gentz to the Shriner’s Children’s Hospital. Envelopes will be available at the Firehouse.
Ingram-Meridith Funeral home of West Salem is honored to assist the family with the arrangements.
Find memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at meridithfuneralhome.com
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