Charles D. Medley

Charles D. Medley, 86, of Rockford Illinois passed away early Sunday morning, October 22, 2017 at OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center surrounded by his loving family. He was born January 23, 1931 in Memphis, TN, the Son of Hughie A. and Jewel E (Timbes) Medley. In 1948 he married the love of his life, Pauline Thurman who preceded him in death in 2016. Charles was a Sergeant in the Army Air Corps. He was well known across the country as a diesel mechanic who could take your Stock 18 wheel diesel truck engine and boost its power. Truckers from all over the country would come to his shop for his specialized service. He was also instrumental in field testing early mechanical advancements for the Cummins diesel engine and the Jake Brake engine brake system. Charles was the District Manager for Cummins Illinois Engine Sales and later founded Diesel Power Rockford. He finished his career life with The Illinois Secretary of State office. Charles was the preeminent storyteller and everyone loved to sit and listen as he offered them. He loved our Lord Jesus Christ and spent many years giving the message at the Rockford Rescue Mission. He was a proud, long time member, and deacon of Forest City Baptist Church. Charles was a loving father, grandfather, and great grandfather.

He is survived by his 9 children, Charles Jr. (Gayle) Medley, Christine (Les Gabriel) Feltman, David (Linda) Medley, Stephen (Patricia) Medley, Carolyn (Fred Swartz) Medley, Karen (Mike) Milco, Philip Medley, Dawn (Perry) Tuneberg, and Lou Ann (Erik) Oksnevad; his 28 grandchildren; 36 great grandchildren; 1 great-great grandchild and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday October 30, 2017, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Mulford Chapel, with visitation from 10 a.m. until time of the service. Private family burial. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Rockford Rescue Mission appreciated. Express online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com