Charlie C. Dobbins

Charlie C. Dobbins, age 91, of South Elgin, passed away Thursday, March 11, 2021 at home surrounded by his loving family.

 He was born January 9, 1930, in Lanett, Alabama.

 In 1947 Charlie volunteered for the Marine Corps.  He left the Marine Corps after three years as a sergeant, only to sign up with the Army and serving our country for an additional 27 years, retiring in 1977 achieving the rank of CW4. He was primarily an engineer, though he also was able to expand his skills as a First Class Diver, Master Parachutist and Army Special Forces.  During his 30 years in the military, he was stationed in Germany, Japan, Vietnam, Chile, Panama, Venezuela and Nicaragua. He loved experiencing international cultures everywhere he was stationed; learning to speak German, Japanese, Vietnamese and Spanish.  He received numerous awards, most notably the Legion of Merit and the Bronze Star.

 After his military career, he joined International Harvester in Illinois (now Komatsu America) and worked 21 years as Government Sales Manager before retiring in 1999.

 He is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years Kimhue (Nguyen), daughters Kieu (Greg) Storinger of South Elgin and Patricia (Rick) Ertl of Barrington; son Dennis (previous marriage) of Pennsylvania, grandchildren Ashley and Joey Storinger; and many other dear relatives and friends.

 He was preceded in death by his parents Willie and Daisy Mae (Thomas), siblings Betty (Bobby) Louallen and Ralph; and children Dale and Angela (previous marriage).

 Funeral service for Charlie will be held Wednesday, March 17, 2021 at 11:00 am at Malone Funeral Home, 324 E. State Street (Route 38), Geneva.

 Burial will follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood.

 Visitation will be held Tuesday, March 16 from 4:00 – 8:00 pm at Malone Funeral Home.

 In lieu of flowers, memorials to Honor Flight Chicago, 9701 W Higgins Rd Ste 310, Rosemont, IL 60018 or St. Joseph’s Indian School at https://www.stjo.org/help-native-americans/memorials/ would be appreciated. 

 For information 630-232-8233 or malonefh.com.

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