Charles "Chuck" Werner Jr.

1960 - 2025

Charles "Chuck" H. Werner Jr., 64, of Independence, IA, passed away peacefully on November 7, 2025, at the Cedar Valley Hospice House in Waterloo, IA, surrounded by his loved ones.

Chuck was born on November 10, 1960, in Independence, IA, the son of Charles H. and Nancy J. (Shaffer) Werner. He grew up on the family farm near Winthrop, where he learned the value of hard work at an early age; driving a combine by the age of 10. Chuck graduated from East Buchanan High School in Winthrop with the Class of 1979 and began working as a farm hand before finding his calling in construction.

He worked for Larson Construction and later spent more than seventeen years with Taylor Ball Construction. While at Taylor Ball he developed a strong relationship with Nash Finch Company that carried on through the next chapter of starting his own business. In the late 2000s, Chuck started Werner Construction, serving the eastern Iowa area until his retirement in 2015. He was known for his strong work ethic, craftsmanship, and willingness to lend a hand whenever someone needed help.

Chuck was a devoted father who taught his children the value of hard work and the importance of family. Many cherished memories were made during game nights, bedtime stories, and fishing trips; often ending with a stop at Wee Willy's for a pop. He loved spending time with his grandchildren, teaching them how to garden and fish, hosting overnight stays filled with homemade pizzas, laughter, and stories.

Chuck had a passion for good food and good company. He was a skilled cook who enjoyed canning, butchering, and preparing hearty meals. One of his favorite traditions was the annual "DEGOH Party" on New Year's Day, where friends and family gathered to enjoy prime rib and celebrate together; they were encouraged to Drink Eat & Go On Home. His kitchen was always full of warmth, laughter, and something delicious on the stove.

He is survived by his significant other, Janine Lange of Independence, IA; his children: Brent Werner of Independence, IA, Jenny (Nathan) Lammers of Cedar Rapids, IA, Amber (Patrick) Willoughby of Ripon, WI, and Sara Werner of Denver, IA; seven grandchildren: Taylor (Stephen) Bowman, Nolan, Jack, and Henry Lammers, Logan, Calvin, and Josie Willoughby; two great-grandchildren: Landon and Oliver Bowman; his mother, Nancy Werner; his siblings: Brenda Lou Werner-Wilson of Springville, IA, Cheryl (Keith) Curry of Jesup, IA, Sally (Ron) Slife of Center Point, IA, Teresa (Artie) Dudley of Independence, IA, and Mark (Sandi) Werner of Winthrop, IA; along with many nieces, nephews, and close friends.

Chuck was preceded in death by his father, Charles Werner Sr.

Visitation will be held from 4 PM to 7 PM on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at the Reiff Family Center – Funeral Home & Crematory in Independence, IA. A Parish Vigil Service will follow at 7 PM. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 AM on Wednesday at St. John's Catholic Church in Independence, IA, with burial at Mt. Hope Cemetery.

To leave an online condolence please go to www.reifffamilycenter.com under obituaries.