Charles “Charlie” McLaughlin, 95, a lifelong resident of Alpha, Illinois, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2024, surrounded by his loving children in the farm home he built and spent most of his life. Born on April 17, 1929, to Elton “Mac” and Leota Ericson McLaughlin, he attended Oxford Township schools and graduated in 1947.
Charlie spent his entire life on his family’s farm in Alpha, a place that was much more than just a piece of land-it was the heart of his life and family. He started farming while still in high school and never looked back. To him, farming wasn’t just an occupation; it was a passion, a way of life he embraced wholeheartedly. After officially retiring in 1986, he was often found working the fields and continuing the work he adored.
He married Jo Ann Lantz on August 25, 1950. On January 5, 1974, in Princeville, Illinois, Charlie married Geraldine “Geri” (Steward) McLaughlin. Their shared home in Alpha was a hub of activity, where his creativity and ingenuity flourished. Known for his exceptional skill, Charlie could (and did) fix or build anything. He crafted beautiful wooden toy tractors by hand and had a deep appreciation for collecting and restoring antique tractors and license plates. At one time he had 75 Farmall tractors that he displayed each year as “Charlie’s Home for Retired Farmalls”.
Though he was rooted in the farmland of Illinois, Charlie and Geri also cherished their homes in Hawaii and Florida, where they created lasting memories and enjoyed many adventures. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends, but his legacy of love, creativity, and dedication to the land will live on forever.
Survived by Children- Marcia (Randy) Cowser, Carterville, IL, Janice Edmund and Beverly Brown, both of Newburgh, IN, Darcy (Scott Swigart, Missouri Valley, IA, Chuck (Deb) McLaughlin, Alpha; Stepsons- Mark Atchison and Kelly (Trudy) Atchison, both of Alpha; Grandchildren- Rorik (Stephanie) Cowser, Nick (Laura) Cowser, Kate Hamlin (David), Abbey (Michael) Doyle, Sarah Spurgeon, Ashley (Brad) Wedeking, Kindel (Brad) Haverback, Annie (Chad) Wood, Wade (Breanna) McLaughlin, Ryan (Krissie) McLaughlin; Step Grandchildren- Eric Atchison, Travis Atchison, Brittney Atchison; Great Grandchildren- Philla, Alexis, and Raylin Cowser, Miles and Owen Doyle, Charlie and Ben Spurgeon, Max and Weston Wedeking, Olivia, Kellen, Grant, and Quinn Haverback, Preston, Jameson, Finley, and McKinley Wood, Oliver, Madelyn, Mac and Jude McLaughlin; Step Great Grandchildren- Abby, Maxton, and Atticus Atchison.
Preceded by His parents; Brother Joe McLaughlin; Son-in Laws Steve Edmund and Jeff Brown; Step Daughter-in Law Marcia Atchison; Step Grandson Trevor Atchison
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the caregivers and hospice staff who provided such compassionate care to Charlie. Their kindness and dedication brought comfort and peace during a difficult time, and the family will forever be thankful for their support.
A celebration of Charlie’s life will be held by the family at a later date. Instead of flowers, the family requests donations to the Alpha Cemetery, in memory of Charlie McLaughlin.
