Charles E. Colwell, Jr.

Charles E. “Chuck” Colwell, Jr., 68, of Galesburg, Illinois died Friday, March 8, 2024, at OSF St. Mary Medical Center, Galesburg.

Chuck was born January 26, 1956, in Galesburg, the son of Charles E. and Betty L. (Shepherd) Colwell, Sr. Chuck is survived by his mother, Betty of Galesburg; one son, Christopher (Rose) Colwell of Galesburg; one brother, Tony (Marilyn) Colwell of Galesburg; one sister, Debbie Rathburn of Abingdon, Illinois; a stepdaughter, Andela D. (Steve) Reed of Manito, Illinois; and one granddaughter, Mercy Sickles. He was preceded in death by his father; a brother, Timothy Colwell; and a stepdaughter, Valerie Venuti.

Chuck worked at Adams Press Metals for over 20 years until its closure. While working there, Chuck also drove as an OTR at Plummer Trucking, a career lasting after Adams. Chuck or “Sowbelly” as he was also known, enjoyed the simple things in life, family, friends, work, and of course riding his Harley Davidson just shy of year-round. His enjoyment of motorcycles led him to work on many bikes over his lifetime. He was also a longtime member of Central Illinois A.B.A.T.E.

Chuck will be long remembered for his unwavering friendship, resilience, tenacity, and determination to better himself and others especially after his auto accident. Those who were fortunate enough to know him were better because of him.

Visitation will be 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, March 15, 2024, at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, March 16, 2024, at the funeral home. Deacon Michael Crummer will officiate. The burial will be at Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens, Galesburg. Memorial contributions may be made to A.B.A.T.E.