Charles DeBaun

Charles "Chuck" J. DeBaun,Age 64, of Elburn, passed away in the early morning hours of Wednesday, January 3, 2007 at Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood. BORN: He was born December 3, 1942 the son of Col. Dr. Charles W. and Thordis (Johansen) DeBaun in Brooklyn, NY. EARLY YEARS :Because Chuck’s father was a career military man, his childhood was spent living in many different places. He attended 22 different schools throughout the U.S. and abroad before graduating high school. Chuck went on to attend Northern Illinois University where he studied physics and computer science. MARRIAGE Chuck met his future wife Leslie through a mutual friendship and before long they decided to make their two lives one when they were united in marriage at the First Presbyterian Church, LaGrange, in 1970. They began their new life together in DeKalb for a time before Chuck began his career at Fermilab, where he would work for over thirty years. The growing family lived in and around the tri-city area before settling in Oak Openings in 1997. MEMBERSHIPS Chuck represented Fermilab as chair for an international standards committee (IEEE). He served as a church deacon. He supported efforts to assist families affected by kidney disease. LIFE NOTES Chuck loved music in all forms and sung in several choirs. His solo’s brought out the performer in him that echoed his days of playing trumpet in a dance band. Chuck had an analytical mind and thirst for knowledge that he continually quenched with studies in science, math and physics. He also had a special place in his heart for the environment. He had a love of the outdoors and was fond of most of its wild inhabitants. That feeling was reciprocated in kind as was evident by their acceptance of his presence—even if Chuck wasn’t a fan of theirs. Chuck continually looked at the world around him and imagined how he could use his knowledge to make a better place for himself, his family and the generations to come. He took immense pride in his job but everything was second when it came to his family. When his sons were growing up, Chuck made sure to instill in them the kind of integrity and ethics that would make any father proud. He also made sure that despite the rigors of his job, he was involved in his son’s lives through Boy Scouts, camping and fishing. He loved to travel with his family as well and took many trips to various destinations throughout the U.S. Chuck also took his family to Puerto Vallarta where he indulged in his love of saltwater snorkeling and exploring the reefs. SURVIVORS He now leaves his loving wife Leslie DeBaun of ElburnThree sons:Ray DeBaun, petty officer with the U.S. Navy stationed at Pearl Harbor, HI;John DeBaun, college student, of Elburn, Michael DeBaun, soldier with the U.S. Army, stationed at Fort Bragg, NC,Two sisters:Dr. Susan (Fred) Conrad of Sherborn, MA, and Jane (Jim) Andrews of Manor, TX;Seven nieces and nephews and a family of friends. PRECEDED He now joins his parents and one aunt, Ruby, affectionately known as "Tante Sis", who preceded him in death.

MEMORIAL SERVICEFriends may call from 1-2:30 p.m. with a memorial service to celebrate his life at 3 p.m. on Saturday, January 6, 2007 at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL.

MEMORIAL A memorial has been established in his name to benefit his favorite charities. Checks may be made to the "Charles DeBaun Memorial " and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, IL 60119. Tributes and memories may also be forwarded to the family at the same address or through www.conleycare.com.