Charles F. Kirkbride

Charles F. Kirkbride, 89, of Vermont, IL, passed away at 5:36 pm on Wednesday, June 5, 2024 at St. Johns Hospital in Springfield, IL. He was born on April 23, 1935 in Vermont, IL, the son of Henry and Gladys (Horwedel) Kirkbride. Charles married Charlene "Sarge" Manuel on December 12, 1964. Charlene preceded Charles in death on January 25, 2020.
Also preceding him in death are his parents and sister, Connie Kennedy.
He is survived by his three daughters from previous marriages; Cheryl Kirkbride of Keokuk, IA, Diana Akers of Quincy, IL, and Glenda Tillman of Colorado, two step-daughters, Vickie (and John) Ruppel of Beardstown, IL and Patsy Reedy of Ipava, IL, one step-son, Jeffrey "Kim" Cable of Astoria, IL, five grandchildren; Jade A. Dunlavey, Charles N. Dunlavey, Tonya Hoier, Valerie Juneman, and Sara Gade, and seven great-grandchildren, Xzavier Juneman, Damion Juneman, Lisa Juneman, Micah Hoier, Schyler J. Dunlavey, Landon D. Dunlavey and Connor L. Dunlavey.
Charles served in the United Sates Army.
After his service in the Army, Charles went on to work at the Vermont Foundry in Vermont. He later worked at International Harvester in Canton, IL and Navistar in Indianapolis, IN for many years.
Charles loved old cars and tractors, especially Ford's. He was known to always buy a "Ford" car, owning several Thunderbirds and Mustangs in his lifetime, and kept them spotless. He enjoyed watching wrestling, gardening and CB Radio. Charles was a member of the Browning Church of Christ and the South Fulton Tractor Club.
A graveside service will be held at 1:30 pm on Monday, June 10, 2024 in the Vermont Cemetery. John Ruppel will be officiating. Memorials may be made to the Browning Church of Christ.