Charles (Chuck) Melvin House

Charles (Chuck) Melvin House, 67, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017. He was born in Benton on January 9, 1950, the son of James A. and Jaunita House. He was married to Barbara Curtis and she survives.

Chuck served his county honorably in the U.S. Army from 1969 through 1971, including a 12-month tour of duty in Vietnam. After returning from the service, he began a long and fulfilling career with Ford Motor Company at various plants in Michigan, where he resided for over 45 years.

Chuck was a fun loving, jolly person who was quick-witted and always ready to play a prank or tell a joke. He was also an avid fan of NASCAR.

Chuck was preceded in death by his parents and an infant son, Eric.

He is survived by his loving wife Barb, step-daughters Toni Hawkins and Dana (Clint) Hoelzer, first wife Lana, sons Brian (Heather) House, Jeremy House and daughter Angie (Mark) Kinney. Chuck will be greatly missed by his nine grandchildren; Tyler, Haylee, Payton, Salemah, Logan, Jacob, Tiffany, Karah and Kacey.

He is further survived by his sister Sue (Ed) Doty, brothers Butch Seibert, Ron (Carol) House, Lou (Leslie) House, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation was held on Sunday, Dec. 10, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Monday, Dec.11 preceding the funeral at 10 a.m. that was officiated by Pastor Kurt Sanders at Morton & Johnston Funeral Home in Benton, Ill. Military rites were administered by the Benton American Legion and VFW Posts and the National Guard Honor Squad. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the First Christian Church Building Fund and will be accepted at any time at the funeral home.