Charlie E. Tanner, 79, of Knoxville, Illinois, passed away at his home on April 24, 2026.
He was born on November 17, 1946, in Ottumwa, Iowa, the son of Frank and Donna (Albright) Tanner. He married Janet P. (Larson) Tanner on December 6, 1970, in Galesburg, Illinois. Janet preceded him in death on April 30, 2014.
He is survived by his children, Kyle E. (Tally) Tanner of Janesville, Wisconsin, and Aaron “Gabby” W. Tanner of Knoxville, Illinois; grandchildren, Charlie Beatrice Tanner, Austin Scott Tanner, Brynn Gabrielle Tanner, and Bryan Allen Tanner; and a brother, Richard Tanner of Ottumwa, Iowa. Charlie was preceded in death by his parents, grandson, Tyler Joseph, and sister-in-law Carolyn.
He graduated from Ottumwa High School. He went on to work for the railroad, working at the tie treatment plant, clerking, and retired a yardmaster after 41 years of service. Outside of work he was a part of many clubs and organizations including Boy Scouts Knoxville Troop 220 and volunteer leadership regionally and nationally with the Boy Scouts and Order of the Arrow, Annual Knoxville Car Cruise, Methodist Men at the Methodist Church, Galesburg Railroad Museum and Railroad Days as well as a proud Union Steward. He helped coach baseball and flag football for his boys’ teams.
Charlie was one of a kind. He loved his family, friends and community. If you were lucky he would give you a nickname that would expand your definition of a term of endearment. There were so many in his life that showed him great kindness in his later years. He appreciated all the visits and calls and efforts to keep him included in the things he loved.
Cremation rights have been accorded. A visitation will be held on May 6 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Homes & Crematory in Knoxville, Illinois. Graveside services will follow at 4 p.m. at the Clover Chapel Cemetery in Woodhull, Illinois. Memorials may be made out to the Galesburg Railroad Museum or the Knoxville Methodist Church. Online condolences or expressions of sympathy may be made through www.hurd-hendricksfuneralhomes.com.
