Charles A. Murphy, 87, resident of Darien, IL peacefully passed away on Wednesday, December 6th in his sleep during one of his many beloved naps. He was born on April 1st, 1935 to Allen and Mary Alice (Smith) Murphy. He was preceded in his death by his parents, brother, Robert, and niece, Kelly.
Charles, known to his beloved family and friends as Chuck, became a paratrooper upon graduating from Proviso East High School in Maywood, IL. During his time serving our country, he exchanged letters with the love of his life, Jean. On August 27th, 1955, Chuck and Jean got married. They spent 68 lovely years together.
Chuck and Jean had five children, Rosemary Tack (Gerrald) of Plainfield, IL, Dennis Murphy (Mary Kay) of Darien, IL, Maryanne Ligmanowski (Robert) of Downers Grove, IL, Carolyn Jenkner (John) of Harvard, IL, and Daniel Murphy of Darien, IL. His legacy will live through his grandchildren, Matthew Janis, Jessica Murphy, Christine Lee (Richard), Justin Murphy, Michelle Ippolito (Joe), Joshua Murphy, Brandon Ligmanowski (Britt), Philip Jenkner, Natalee Ligmanowski, Zachary Ligmanowski (Jim Czeszewski), Michael Jenkner (Sabrina Wiggins), and Cathryn Tack. Chuck was not only a loving father and grandfather, he was also a superb great grandfather.
Chuck had one sibling, Robert (Bob), who was sent to heaven sooner than expected to join his daughter, Kelly. Chuck took it upon himself to look after his sister-in-law, Joyce, and her sons, Rob and Sean, whom he loved dearly. Chuck was a strong support for Joyce during her cancer diagnosis, and was an even stronger source of support for his wife, Jean, when she too battled cancer.
Chuck loved his family dearly and lived his entire life ensuring his children and grandchildren would always be taken care of. He took great pride in his role as a husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. He could start a conversation with anyone about just about anything and was extremely observant. Chuck never missed a good meal, which wasn’t hard to do considering his wife, Jean, is extremely talented in the kitchen.
Chuck’s dedication to his family was adored by all and will be greatly missed. His family and friends will always remember him for his kindness, generosity, and sense of humor. Please join us in celebrating his life on Monday, December 11th for a visitation from 4-7 pm at Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 301 75th St, Downers Grove, IL. Family and friends will meet Tuesday December 12th at St. Mary Immaculate Church, 15629 Illinois Route 59, Plainfield, IL for Mass at 10:30 a.m. Interment to follow at Queen of Heaven Cemetery.