Charles ‘Chuck’ Epley
Charles Robert “Chuck” Epley (73) of Sun City, AZ, passed Wednesday, February 28th, surrounded by his family at Hospice of the Valley in Surprise, AZ. Chuck was born August 14, 1950 in Howell, MI, to Robert & Margaret (Witt) Epley.
He grew up on the family farm and attended school in Fowlerville, graduating with the Class of 1968. Later that fall Chuck enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving honorably, with two tours in Vietnam, until 1972. The exposure to “Agent Orange” while serving led to health issues that plagued him later in life. After his discharge, he returned home to work on the family farm.
On December 21, 1974, Chuck married Kathleen Patricia Grund of Baltimore, MD. Chuck was later trained and licensed as a heavy equipment mechanic and moved his family to Yuma, AZ, securing employment with the Department of Army at the Yuma Proving Grounds. After 17 years Chuck retired for health reasons.
The Yuma home was open to friends and family as Chuck and Kathy’s children grew up in the beautiful resort town along the Colorado River. Chuck loved his wife, children, and grandchildren very much, sharing many adventures with each.
Chuck is predeceased by his parents Robert and Margaret Epley, son Matthew Epley (1992), and nephew Troy Recker (2006). He is survived by his wife Kathy; daughter Kelly (Mark) Wennsman of San Jose, CA, son Christopher (Heather) of Jacksonville, FL, daughter Meghan of Yuma, AZ, and daughter Erin (Davina) Epley-Shoemake of Surprise, AZ.; 12 grandchildren; siblings Judy Recker, Jack Epley, Mary Donohue, Peg (Bob) Smith, and Mark (Julie) Epley all of Michigan; aunt Nelly Epley Shirley of Florida and aunt Frances (Bernard) Bessert of Michigan; plus many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
The Marine Corps volunteers at Hospice of the Valley held a ceremony at Chuck’s bedside before passing. A private Memorial was held at his daughter’s home in Surprise, AZ. Further arrangements are pending. Memorial contributions can be sent to Hospice of the Valley 14066 W Waddle Road, Surprise, AZ 85379 or to the family for future designation.
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