Charles Van Marshall

On the morning of March 9, 2024 – the clouds parted and Charles Van Marshall, age 79 of Matthews, MO, formerly of East Prairie, MO, was ushered into the gates of Heaven. Welcoming him into the Glory land was his mother and father, Van J. and Norma Lea Tyler Marshall, sister Cynthia Toler, brother Keith Marshall, his grandson Deven Gorostiza and great-grandson Coleson Vaughn.
On October 19, 1991, he married Donna Bass, who survives of the home. The love that Charlie and Donna had for each other was beautiful and unconditional. The two loved to travel together, especially to their favorite vacation spot – Destin, FL. However, Charlie and Donna were also fortunate to see Hawaii, the Dominican Republic, and several other amazing destinations together. If they weren't on a beach somewhere, then you'd more than likely find them at Busch Stadium cheering on their Cardinals. Charlie could easily be named as the St. Louis Cardinals biggest fan – even getting 2 chairs for him and Donna, from the original Busch Stadium when it was torn down. Forever would have not been long enough for Charlie and Donna but the 33 years they did share, were the most loving and memorable. Donna will continue to keep his memory alive here on Earth.
Not only was Charlie a devoted husband but he also exemplified a dedicated and loving father and grandfather – or better known as "Pappy." Pappy loved his grandchildren more than anything in this world. Being a sports enthusiast, he loved to watch his grandchildren play baseball, softball, basketball, and cheerleading. Once he got his popcorn from the concession stand, he was front and center cheering them on. He lived for the summers when they were able to all vacation together in Florida. He would do anything to make his grandchildren smile – even if that meant walking 2 miles one on way for ice cream in the Florida heat, countless trips to Build-A-Bear workshop, Amtrak rides to Wrigley Field to root on the Cardinals, taking silly pictures, dolphin cruises, parasailing or whatever adventure and idea they could come up with – Pappy was always willing and always made it happen.
Hard work and drive were two qualities that Charlie held an abundance of. He joined the United States Army in 1966 and served his country proudly while being stationed in Germany until 1968. He was employed at Bunge Corporation and Noranda Aluminum for a number of years until his retirement in 2010. Retiring did not stop Charlie from staying busy though as he was a member of the Charleston VFW, the Charleston Masonic Lodge #407 AF&AM, he was of the 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Lodge of Perfection of St. Louis, MO, and a member of the New Madrid American Legion.
Surviving in addition to his wife are his two daughters: Shelly Chandler of Kevil, KY and Tess Marshall of Oklahoma; one stepdaughter, Deanna Bass of Wickliffe, KY; His seven grandchildren, Tyler (Jennifer) Chandler, Taylor (Austin) Chandler, Tanner Chandler, RyLea Chandler, Issac Chandler, Derrik (Kimmy) Bass and DeDria Burgess. 12 great-grandchildren, Kaydin Redfern, Drake Redfern, Boone Redfern, Bailey Redfern, Aubrey Chandler, Camden Chandler, Claire Chandler, Khloe Bass, Deven Howell, Jaxon Howell, Ryker Bass and Haislee Bass; two sisters, Linda Bisher and Lesa (Max) Marshall Thye and one brother, Todd (Cheryl) Marshall. He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews.
2 Timothy 4:7 "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."
There will be no visitation.
Family and friends may assemble for graveside services at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at the Dogwood Cemetery. Martin Lucas will officiate.
Interment will follow under the direction of McMikle Funeral Home of Charleston.
Pallbearers will be Dale Chandler, Tyler Chandler, Tanner Chandler, Issac Chandler, Derrik Bass and Mickey Abner.
Online condolences may be shared at www.mcmiklefuneralhome.com
In lieu of flowers, plants and gift items, the family kindly requests memorials be made to; The Parkinsons Foundation at parkinsons.org. or to the American Heart Association at heart.org.