Charles L. Smith (Charlie), age 78, a resident of Aurora, Illinois, passed away on Friday, April 12, 2024. He was born November 14, 1945, in Hallsville, Texas, to Robert & Dorothy Smith.

Charlie lived a full life, including seeing the world and making close relationships. As a young person, he became a competitive bowler who made his mother proud. The local lanes became his favorite place to spend time after (or during?) school. He continued to practice bowling at the University of North Texas, where he earned a degree in Business Administration.

Charlie joined the Navy in 1967 and was honorably discharged in 1973 as a Petty Officer Third Class. His love for competitive bowling continued when he joined the Navy bowling team. He told stories to his family about how well the team performed and how much he enjoyed representing the Navy in armed forces tournaments.

After the Navy, he used his degree to make a name for himself at several national brands that operated retail stores. Inspired by their success, Charlie opened his own chain of stores in Minneapolis with his then-wife, Mary. They experienced success for over ten years until they sold the stores, and Charlie became a sales representative. Charlie's children, Bryan and Simone, and Charlie's love for golf were all born during this period of his life. All three blossomed.

Charlie remained in Minnesota for several more decades, during which he married again and flexed his entrepreneurial muscles by dabbling in several small businesses. At this point, golf became his true passion. His skill at the game grew until he was a scratch handicap and was ranked in the state of Minnesota. Begrudgingly at first, and then with much love, Bryan caddied for his father as often as he could and in all the big tournaments.

Eventually, Charlie decided to join his daughter in the Chicago suburbs. Their community welcomed him with open arms. Charlie was frequently seen at his grandchildren's baseball, basketball, and soccer games. Grandparents Day might have been his favorite day of the year when Simone's kids invited him annually. He loved his time living close to her family and was always thankful for their love and support.

Most notably, Charlie found the strength to earn his 30-year sobriety medallion, thanks to the support and sponsorship of his friends and peers at Alcoholics Anonymous. He will remain an inspiration to his family and the AA community.

Charlie is survived by his son, Bryan, and Bryan's wife, Jamie; daughter, Simone Halpin, and Simone's husband, Anthony; grandchildren Mattie, Eli, Beckett, Asher, Juniper, and Liv. He had no siblings but had one cousin, Gary Lovelace, who resides in Hallsville, Texas.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Services will be held privately.

Memorial gifts may be directed to Naomi's House or the charity of your choice.

Family and friends may sign a guest book at hultgrenfh.com. For more information, please call Hultgren Funeral Home at 630-668-0027.