Charles Thul

Date of Birth

Jun 16,1948

Date of Death

Nov 17,2013

Charles Edward "Charlie" Thul, age 65, of Cortland, formerly Elburn, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Cortland, Sunday, November 17, 2013. He was born June 16, 1948 in Redbank, NJ, the son of Charles and Rita Thul. Charlie grew up in Red Bank and attended local schools. He graduated with the class of 1966.After working local jobs for a time, Charlie enlisted in the United States Navy, proudly serving his country until he returned to civilian life in Park Forest, IL with his wife, Barbara Latourette. They welcomed home a son, Charles Edward Thul III, who would not only continue the family legacy, but also made their family complete. Charlie and Barbara’s paths diverged, each taking a different road in life. Charlie continued to work construction in and around the suburbs. He loved what he did, but soon found he loved someone more. Her name was Cindy Morano. They met while Charlie was working at Builder’s Square and sold her a fence. That simple transaction turned into something more beautiful when they were united in marriage in Naperville at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church on May 10, 1995. They began their new life together in Naperville for a time before settling in Elburn. Charlie continued to work construction until the housing downturn forced him into retirement in 2007. He never gave up and eventually found inspiration in the kitchen while helping Cindy run her store Party Animals, in Elburn. Charlie began attending Elgin Community College in 2012 and worked toward becoming a Pastry Chef. Charlie was the best grandpa you could find and cheered the loudest at all of their activities. They also went to numerous destinations with fun on order with every trip. Everybody had a great time when they hung out with grandpa. Using the skills he honed on the work sites of his youth, Charlie crafted beautiful, one-of-a-kind, rocking horses, trains and airplanes. He also learned to scuba dive and pilot a plane. Charlie always said he loved to travel but never went anywhere, although that’s only half true because besides traveling back to his old stomping grounds in New Jersey, Charlie also made it all the way to Pakistan. He was a man among men and larger than life to his family. His shoes will never be filled and his legacy of laughter and love and will never be forgotten. He is survived by his wife Cindy Thul, One son, Charlie Thul;Six grandchildren: Zachary Benson, Briana Aken, Cody Benson, Nathaniel Aken,Sarah Thul and Charles Edward Thul IV;Two siblings:Mary (Neil) Smith and John (Patty) Thul;Many nieces, nephews and a family of friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Rita Thul.Following cremation, private family services will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.

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