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Charles Worden Obituary

Worden, Charles - (Chuck) Lead Vocal For 'Chain Lightning' July 7, 1956-July 14, 2004. Active in Bikers for Make-A-Wish, and White Bear Hockey Assoc. Preceded in death by parents, Jeanne and Kenneth (former active members at American Legion Post 358); and a niece, Tracie McBride. Survived by daughters, Sharon (Marc) Brandt and Leesa (Randy) Williams; grandchildren, Randy Rayvn and Michael Damian; fiancee, Kelly Roberts and her children, Adam, Chelsea, Aaron and Brendon; siblings, Irene (Jim) McBride, Jody, Kenny (Theresa) Worden; nieces and nephews; and many friends. Reviewal 4-7PM, Tuesday, July 20 at REDEEMING LOVE CHURCH, 2425 White Bear Ave., with service at 7PM. Procession leaving the church, 11AM, Wednesday for Union Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred. THE FUNERAL DIRECTOR 651-645-1233.

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Published by Pioneer Press on Jul. 18, 2004.

Memories and Condolences
for Charles Worden

Sponsored by All the bandmates from the Twin Cities.

Not sure what to say?





Your Daughter Sharon

June 10, 2008

Dad,
We just had the 4th Annual Ride for Wishes. It was awesome! We were able to sponsor 2 Make-A-Wish kids in your memory. We know that you were watching us and were proud. Many people that knew and loved you help keep your memory alive. We miss you everyday, but know that you are really never very far.

Chore Members of " Ride for Wishes "

July 17, 2007

For the third year in a row, we have held " Ride for Wishes " in your honor to benefit Make a wish of Minnesota, thank you for watching over us and always giveing us great weather, but do you think that maybe next year it could be a little cooler, that would help a lot !

ww

May 23, 2006

It is hard to believe almost two years have passed. Time goes too swiftly. You are greatly missed.

Lori Moeller-Dombovy

March 9, 2006

I just found out about Chuck's untimely passing. I used to hang out with Chuck back in the late 80's when Chuck was playing softball. A few years ago, I ran into someone, I don't remember who exactly, that told me Chuck was in a band and singing. I always knew Chuck was a great guy with a happy go lucky attitude and a smile and a hug for everyone. I wish I had the chance to see him one last time and listen to him sing and get caught up. Chuck will be truly missed. From what I've read in his guest book, only shows, Chuck was well loved and a super great guy. Chuck and family, my prayers are with you always. Rest in peace, Chuck!

Doreen

July 18, 2005

I didnt find out about your passing until four months later. Words cannot describe how much you'll be missed.Chuck your with me in my heart forever and always.

i love you much....D.

MiMi Gabrielli

July 16, 2005

It's been a year that you left...I know you're alright because I can feel it..so many people miss you,...you were a good man.....and yes I had the surgery and I'am alright too....thanks for watching over me...

Kel

July 14, 2005

A year ago today, we were headed to moondance. We were so excited. I never thought it would be your last day.At least I was there for your last breath.You have the best friends ever. They're taking good care of me. You chose them well. Watch over us, young man. I'll see you again.

Mummers

WW

January 24, 2005

I miss you lots, think of you daily. You will always be in my heart.

Joan Ory

August 16, 2004

Dear Chuck,

I know on July 7th it was someone I know's birthday, I just couldn't remember who. Now I know it was yours. When I went to visit my parents, my Mom gave me the article about your death. Not only was I shocked but also very saddened. I had always wondered what you were doing over the years. I was very happy to see you still played music! But not as a drummer, but as a singer in a band. I know where you are there are plenty of "musicians" to "jam" with! After reading the other notes/letters I have come to the see that you became a very giving man. I just wish I had kept in touch with you over the years.

May you and the Good Lord watch over your families. Give them peace in your passing.

I'll always remember you.

Joan

Angie Sedesky

August 4, 2004

I just found out today about Chuck's tragic death. I also met Chuck at Peppercorn's, before Chain Lightening came to be what it is today. I remember him fondly. I'm so very sorry for your loss!

Audra Hagert (Heide)

July 30, 2004

Im at a loss for words and the tears just keep falling, I just found out today. Chuck you will be so missed by many and my heartfelt thoughts go out to Kelly and Greg and everyone in the band. While you're up in that great rock and roll heaven Chuck, say Hi to Dan for me ok?

MiMi Gabrielli

July 29, 2004

Hey Chuck....I've been talking to you alot lately,the day we walked you to your final resting place you and I had a talk.I told you I was dealing with something you already knew...but I just heard...I have two brain aneurysms.That day we talked you said you would watch over me,everyday since.. my cell phone rings four times a day...No name..No number..but I know it's you telling me everything will be fine.Thanks for being there for me and for all the phone calls.....

Chief

July 28, 2004

Messed up on my E mail address last entry ( still learning )

Chief

July 28, 2004

My thought`s and prayer`s to chuck family and to greg and the rest of the band he will be missed in the music biz and as a person. He was a true meaning of a "simple and southern MAN". God Bless

frank kohler

July 25, 2004

i miss hearing you sing an seeing your smiling fce frankie

regina laeson

July 25, 2004

this is for chuck. me and dave and the kide will miss you. you were the rock in are lives or like ever one called you the BIG teddy bear

Kerry Conner

July 24, 2004

I met Chuck when he was a bouncer @ Peppercorns & Chained Lightning was just starting out. I was never really into southern rock but Chuck was so cool to me all the time that when he asked me to check out a show I had to go. This was a rare thing having live show @ Peppercorns, it was a great show! I saw Chuck & southern rock in a whole new light! Thanks Chuck. He kept me out of alot of trouble back then & never looked down on me for the stupid things I'd put him through. He was the best. RIP

Tonie & Joe Kruse

July 23, 2004

We were introduced to Chuck several years ago through our nephew, Billy Kruse. Billy and Chuck had been discussing the Bikers for Make-A-Wish events, and Chuck wanted to be a part of it. And so it began. Chuck and the band members became a committed partner to Bikers for Make-A-Wish and never looked back. Every year we could rely on them for an outstanding performance at our two largest fund-raising events, the outdoor party/benefit in July and the spring event held in April. And some of those performances were under some dreadful conditions…90 degree temps with horrible humidity, and the sun beating down on them. But they always put on a great show and the crowd loved them for it!



We are grateful to have had the opportunity to work alongside Chuck in our efforts to help fulfill the wishes of these special Make-A-Wish kids. He was a gentle man with a generous heart.



Joe & Tonie Kruse and the Kokesh/SRO Make-A-Wish Staff

Billy and Krista Kruse

July 23, 2004

Kelly

Just thought I would share some thing Krista said to me the other night. I was feeling rough after the services on Tuesday and Krista looked at me and said "don't cry he's backstage forever now" Hope it helps - love ya!!!!!

MARC AND LYN BRANDT

July 23, 2004

WHAILE WE ONLY KNEW YOU FOR A SHORT TIME, YOU GAVE OUR FAMILY SOMETHING TO HOLD ONTO FOREVER,YOUR DAUGHTER SHARON,I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER HER WEDDING TO MARC, AND HOW YOU GOT UP THERE TO GIVE THEM A TOAST, A MAN OF FEW WORDS, BUT A LOT OF EMOTION, AS YOU LOOKED AT YOUR DAUGHTER WITH THE PRIDE AND LOVE OF A FATHER, YOU CHOKED BACK THE TEARS, RAISED YOUR GLASS AND SAID,"I LOVE YOU GUYS" YOU WILL BE MISSED MORE THAT YOU WILL KNOW, BUT YOUR MEMORIES WILL LIVE ON IN THE HEARTS OF YOUR CHILDREN,AND YOUR GRANDCHILDREN.AS I SAID TO SHARON, IT SPEAKS WELL OF A MAN WHO HAS GIVEN SO MUCH THAT HIS FRIENDS WOULD TAKE THE TIME TO PAY THEIR RESPECTS IN SUCH AN HONORABLE WAY! YOU HAVE LEFT YOUR CHILDREN THE GREATEST GIFT ANYONE CAN GIVE...MEMORIES

John & Margie

July 22, 2004

"Try not to Cry"

I sit and listen

for what

I don't know

Maybe a voice saying

"You'll survive."

But once I hear that voice

I'll know

That whatever happens

to me, to you, or to us

we will always be together

in our memories and minds

and pictures and hearts.

That's all that matters now and that's all that will matter

in the end.

Love Dusty M. (1979-1996)



We love you Kel Bel & Kids!!!

Jay and Anita Krisnik

July 21, 2004

It was always nice to see that Chain Lightning was playing at Moondance, you guys are and always will be one of our favorite bands. Our prayers go out to his family and friends. Jay and Anita

Rich Salsbury

July 21, 2004

I'll never forget the last words Chuck said to me. He called me last Thursday nite to see if I wanted to go sing Karaoke to help a friend get a new show going. He said, "Come on out, it'll be fun to sing together again, it's been a while. I'll see you down there and I'll start the tab!"



I will always regret not being able to make it down. Start that tab Chuckie, we'll see ya when we get there.



R.est I.n P.arty Bro'

Larry G. Rowe

July 21, 2004

This morning, my grandson and I were blessed by having to wait for a passing funeral procession. I always remind my grandchildren that death is the certainty, life the uncertainty, to be grateful for the present moment, and to respect those who have passed on.



This funeral procession we observed was unlike any I have experienced in both length and mix. Both my 9 year old grandson and I had to research who this unknown person was that commanded such love and respect. It led us to the internet, to the Chain Lightning web page, to listening to the music of this man, from a group I never heard of before.



The logic of life has lost a lovely phrase, a resounding note, a triumphant down beat, but they will play on for the angels. Providence put me on the path of Charles Worden today, and I am the better for it, for traveling a less traveled road.

Thomas Jude

July 21, 2004

Just want to express my condolences to Chucks family, and the band. I did not know Chuck, but have seen you guys play and you guys rock. I also have played moondance jam. right after we were done, you guys played the next regional set..and we really liked ur style,and chuck , you could tell had a lot of heart when he sang, which means to me, he had heart in his life. I am sure he will be sadly missed by all his family and friends, and all who have seen him perform. Thomas "Jude".

Traci and Jon Kruse

July 20, 2004

We are all better people for knowing Chuck. He and Chain Lightning gave their hearts and souls to Make-A-Wish and there are many kids who's wishes came true thanks to all of you!

Erick Wright

July 20, 2004

I just did sound for the boys not too long ago at Montes. He came in a couple days later and told the staff he thought it was one of the best mixes he had had. Not many people take the time... I didnt know him well, but he was a nice and talented guy. He will be missed.

Rob Kapas

July 20, 2004

Kelly

We only met one time when Chucks band and Riches band played in St.Paul. Chuck and I worked at Firestone for about a year and I thought he was a great person to know. My dad passed away about two years ago so when I heard Chuck passed away I was in total shock not only from experienceing my dads death but also by how great chucks out look on life was. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and the family.

dan Brandt

July 20, 2004

I love you man!! I'll miss you and all the laughter we shared.



John (Dan) Brandt

gary lee

July 20, 2004

Kelly-

I can't tell you how sorry I am. I loved Chuck so much and his not being here is going to be a real loss. Please accept my deepest sense of sympathy. I will always treasure the laughs, talks, and music. He truly was one-of-a-kind!!! The nites that we jammed at Dukes are some of my fondest memories. I think the thing that struck me most was the way he lit up when he found you. He was so happy.

To the guys in the band:

Hang in there. I don't know what you'll do for he truly is irreplaceable, but keep rocking.

MiMi & Mike Gabrielli

July 20, 2004

You gave me words I needed and put them in a song..



THE PROMISE

A promise made once was broken

It took my heart like it was stolen

Just like a thief he took the things

Like trust in love another would bring.

It made me feel they're all the same

I gave my heart he didn't take it

Now I hope that I can make it

Past all the times of fear I feel

And when it comes I'll know it's real

So love again can find my heart

And I can make a brand new start...



This is just a part of the song you wrote me....I found love again just like you promised........MIMI



Chuck

you will always be in our hearts...

Tammie Silverstone

July 20, 2004

Chuck, you will surley be missed...yes indeedy :(

Susie Fedor-Beam

July 20, 2004

Ever since I was a little girl, Cousin Chuckie was the big man with the funny jokes & warm smile. (Truly giving me the giggles at a totally inappropriate time at a family function) These are the memories I will cherish in my heart. He will be missed. My family sends our prayers all those touched by Chuckie's life.

Dan and Betty Jane Beck

July 20, 2004

We saw every Chain Lightning show at Moondance. Chuck had his finest moment on July 14th opening the mainstage. What an encore.



"Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,

That saved a wretch like me....

I once was lost but now am found,

Was blind, but now, I see.



Rest in peace, brother.

Johnny Bray

July 20, 2004

I remember Chuck as being a 'straight-shooter', always from the heart. A man who picked me up when I had fallen. Reassured me all was good. Chuck always had a smile which was genuine just like the talent he expressed on stage. He will be missed by many and forgotten by few. My prayers to his family and fellow bandmates.

Bruce Michnowski

July 19, 2004

Chuck,May your soul Rest In Peace for ever and ever.....Your brothers and your music will live with us for ever also,We will never forget you.....Bruce

Marty a.k.a. Hector Pender

July 19, 2004

I am at a loss for words. I think I'll go for a midnite ride with the cool breeze in my face, and listen to the songs in my head. Chucks ridin free now. Never thought the Freedom Rally would be last time i'd see him. Just goes to show, You never know. Live life to the fullest, and enjoy every day like it's your last. Ride Free Bro, We'll miss you.

July 19, 2004

Simple Southern Soul



He stood tall in his black hat and beard

but their was nothing to fear

From this simple southern soul



He wasn’t into carousing or fighting

Just rockin’ with Chain Lightning

Gentle was he, this simple southern soul



The warmth, kindness and smile

made you want to listen for a while

To that simple southern soul



Some say that first go the best,

to make room for the rest

spread your wings you simple southern soul



His voice and music will always stand

For the beliefs and values of this man

You’ll be missed simple southern soul

Chuck Cain

July 19, 2004

Chuck

Our prayers are for you and your famley

Thank you for all the great things you have done for us at Make-A-Wish

Chuck Cain

Angie & Pat Midwest Quick Throttle Magazine

July 19, 2004

We have been huge Fans of Chain Lightning for many years. Chuck was always so kind and he will be greatly missed. God now has another beautiful voice for his choir. Ride Free Forever Chuck!

Roger Holmes

July 19, 2004

We have been avid fans of Chuck and Chain Lightning for several years. Through the conversations with Chuck we have came to know him as a good man with a big heart. His voice will be missed but not as much as the man behind it. Our hearts go out to all his freinds and family.

Sincerly,

Roger Holmes and Sue Kealy

Vonnie & Wayne Passon

July 19, 2004

We've lost one of the last great southern gentlemen. Kelly, Leesa & Sharon, our hearts go out to you in your time of loss. Chuck was a wonderful, warm, caring person we were proud to call our friend and he will be missed by many people that were lucky enough to know him. In the words of Johnny Van Zandt -



"Do you realize what you've done,

touched the hearts of everyone.

You might have died too young,

but your songs live on."



We’ll miss you Chuck!!!

Chris & CJ Coughlin

July 19, 2004

We love you Chuck!We know you are in a better place now, but we still wish you were here with us.It is no wonder why god chose you, you were one of the kindest people we have ever met, now you get to entertain the heavens! To Kelly, her children,Greg and the rest of the band and other close friends we feel your saddness and grief. If there is anything we can ever help you with,please contact us. Love ya all, your friends forever,

Tammy Pettet

July 19, 2004

Much sadness will be felt today and for a long time to come. Chuck was a good and special friend to me and always had a smile and hug ready. I have many, many fond memories and will miss him terribly. My thoughts and best wishes go out to Kelly and the guys. Hang tough. Rest in peace Chuckie.



Love, Tammy & Eric

david chirhart

July 19, 2004

I was at moondance jam, in walker mn when the lord called home another FREEBIRD...My prayers are with the family, band members,and manny friends.

t &m

July 18, 2004

Fly Home Freebird...Fly On

Rest In Peace......

Julie & Mike Pooler

July 18, 2004

It is said that when a good man dies, a thousand lights go out, and it is said that a giant library is lost. But, a good man has a heritage beyond the grave and we would be foolish not to see that.



We are so sorry for your loss Kelly and to all of Chucks children, from family to Make-a-Wish I'm sure he cared for them all.



But we are proud to say, "A good man has went away." You'll see him soon, just follow the light of a good man that was Chuck Worden.



We will miss that tender yet strong voice that was the sole of Chain Lightning...



Rock on in the sky big guy... we will miss you very much.

Susan and David Guzman

July 18, 2004

Sending our prayers for all Chuck's family and friends; especially Kelly

Jay Oleson

July 18, 2004

My thoughts and prayers are with family and friends.

Taken March 27th

Pat and Becky Flanagan

July 18, 2004

Chuck was a man who loved his family, his friends, and of course his music. It didn't matter if it was a Make-A-Wish, or as in my case, muffler issues. He went into both with the same attitude. Do it right. Thank you for your sense of ethics, Chuck. We are better people for knowing you.

Billy

July 18, 2004

"So I play this song one more time,

'cause Lord its all I know

I'll be standin' at your door following along

'Cause all I have is a song

And this song will live on



All I have is a song

A piece of me to live on"



Rest in peace Chuck; gonna miss your music and friendship..... You're free as a bird now.

Seth and Laura

July 18, 2004

His family, his music, his friends.

Chuck was truly a simple man that cherished these things. Our prayers are with you Kelly, Lisa, Sharon, Chelsea,Brendon,Aaron,Adam ,all the band members and families. Fly on proud bird....fly on.

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