Charles Lee Swynenberg of Boulder Hill/Montgomery, IL became ill and passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, December 19th, at Rush Copley Memorial Hospital. He was born on September 24, 1933 in Valparaiso, IN. He is survived by his loving, caring wife of 68 years, Mary Elizabeth. Chuck is also survived by his 3 children, Connie Swynenberg Hem of Sycamore, IL, Charles Lee Jr. (Valerie) Swynenberg of Davenport, IA and Nancy (David) Strothman of Millington, IL who all adored their dad. He also leaves behind 8 grandchildren who he thought the world of, and they of him in return. They are Ben (Dr. Kelly) Fredricks of Port Orange, FL, Heidi Hem Bougher of Naperville, Dr. Derek (Morgan) Hem of Columbus, OH, Matt (Abby) Swynenberg of Blue Grass, IA, Luke (Ashley) Strothman of Yorkville, Kaleb (Taylor) Strothman of Waterman, Mike Swynenberg of St. Petersburg, FL, and Kylie (Jake) Brewick of Yorkville. Chuck had the pleasure of knowing 11 great-grandchildren. They are Ashton, Payton, Reese, Kamron, Stella, Mackenzie, Decker, Elliana, Elsie, Ethan and Audun. Chuck is also survived by his loving sister Kay Swynenberg Hoover of Valparaiso, three brothers-in-law, Kent Hoover of Valparaiso, Billy Tabler of Fishers, IN and John Damico of Rochester, NY, as well as 9 nieces and nephews. Chuck was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin I. Swynenberg and Grace Kinne Swynenberg, his dear sister, Karen Tabler, and sister-in-law, Frances May Damico. Chuck attended Valparaiso University where he majored in Accounting. He spent several years working as a postman in Valparaiso. After moving to Boulder Hill, he worked for Alloyd Corp. in DeKalb, IL, where he was Manager of Purchasing and Production Control. He retired at age 62. Chuck was a devoted member of Boulder Hill Neighborhood Church of the Brethren for 58 years where he served on the Stewardship Commission and was the church treasurer. In his retirement he was employed by the Oswego Park District and enjoyed working alongside many young people. Chuck was loved by everyone he met; he never said a negative word about anybody. He expected his children and grandchildren to live according to the Golden Rule, "Always treat others the way you want to be treated." He thought education was very important and was especially proud all 3 of his children received their college degrees. Chuck was an avid fisherman and a member of the Barber Green Hunting and Fishing Club. In his younger days, he loved going on fishing trips with family members and friends to Canada, Lake Michigan, Lake Erie, and at Lake Vermillion, MN, and on the Mississippi River in Alma, WI. One of Chuck's favorite hobbies was woodworking. He was quite talented when it came to building and fixing just about anything. He instilled his love of these trades into his son, son-in-law, all of his grandsons, and even some of their friends. Chuck and Mary had a lot of fun travelling to several parts of the United States, attending plays, concerts and dinners with dear friends, but nothing was more important than family. As a dad, a grandpa, and finally a great-grandpa, Chuck could always be counted on to show up for the kid's activities. He was a Number 1 fan for every member of his family! Up until this past year, whoever was available at any given time would congregate at the homestead for birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, or just because they could. Chuck always enjoyed the fellowship, talking about our latest endeavors, reminiscing about our favorite past memories, and sharing delicious meals together. The Swynenberg family is extremely grateful for the wonderful members of Boulder Hill Neighborhood Church, and the many other kind and caring neighbors and friends who have always looked after Dad and Mom in their golden years. We have already witnessed how you still continue to do so for Mom. Your love and kindness means the world to us. Cremation entrusted to the Dunn Family Funeral Home with crematory, 1801 S. Douglas Rd.Oswego, IL.60543. A Celebration of Chuck's Life will take place at a future date. For information www.dunnfamilyfuneralhome.com or 630-554-3888