Life Story for
Charles M. Denton
CHARLES M. DENTON
“BUBBA”
Charles M. Denton, age 96, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 26, 2017 at Joliet Area Community Hospice.
Survived by his children, Robert F. “Rick” Denton (Carol Colatrella); Deborah Denton (Joseph Pinzarrone); and Deena (James) Hillman, Bubba’s primary caregiver for the last seven years; his grandchildren, Mattilee (Josh Nagle), Harry, Kathryn, Charlie, Emma, Max, and Lena.
Preceded in death by his parents, Robert F. and Ursula Meador Denton; wife Eleanor Kathryn “Ma” (Stampley) Denton; daughter Charla Kay Denton; sisters Hazel, Marie, and Eliese.
Charles was born in Meridian, Mississippi and raised in nearby Marion. He attended Millsaps College in Jackson, MS, prior to his being hired by the Federal Government, where he spent his entire career. He began as an Ammunition Inspector, which led him to work all over the world, including Germany, the Aleutians, Washington, D.C., Cambodia, Hawaii, the Philippines, Vietnam, Korea, and Japan. Charles eventually moved with his family to Shorewood (Troy) in 1961, working at the Joliet Arsenal until his retirement in 1976. He spent most of those retirement years (nearly 41 of them) as a tireless and devoted husband, father, and grandfather.
His other passions included the Cubs, ornithology, calligraphy, solving word puzzles, and writing poetry, eventually having a compilation of his poems published as Crossing Purposes at the age of 89.
Per Charles’ wishes Cremation Rites were accorded. A Memorial Service Celebrating the life of Charles Denton will be held Wednesday March 29, 2017 6PM- 7PM. In Lieu of flowers memorials to Joliet Area Community Hospice would be appreciated.
