Charles “Chuck” Edward Lane, 79, a big teddy bear of a man, left this world to meet his Maker on July 7, 2026 when his worn-out, much-used heart finally rested. Chuck was born on April 2,1947 in Chicago, Illinois to Levi and Corabelle (Miller) Lane. He lived a life filled with laughter, sports, volunteerism, travel, gambling, family and friends. He was a proud veteran of the United States Navy.

As many are aware, Chuck’s stubbornness was only eclipsed by his belief that he was always right. That was proved correct when he married his wife, Debbie, whom he met when both were called for jury duty downtown. For years afterwards he was known as the man who went to jury duty and got sentenced to life.

Chuck enjoyed many fun-filled years as a volunteer counselor and program leader at One Step at a Time Camp for children with cancer in Williams Bay, Wisconsin, where he touched countless lives. When working, he was employed as a wine and liquor salesman for a few years, and then switched to a career in risk management actuarial work. After retiring in 2011 he did consultant work for two years. Chuck and Debbie purchased a house in Las Vegas where they wintered for eight years, which was very convenient for his love of casinos.

Gambling was a source of entertainment for him, but truthfully, all who knew Chuck were the ones who hit the biggest jackpot. As a child Chuck could be found in any empty school lot or park playing baseball, all day, every day. In later years, playing softball, golf, fishing, and of course, baseball were his hobbies. The White Sox and anyone who played the Cubs were his favorite teams. Gambling, watching baseball and football on his big-screen TV filled his time after health issues arrived. He was a superb PITA.

Chuck and Debbie were world travelers, with highlights being their search for Northern Lights in Alaska, Iceland and Norway. They spent their 40th anniversary in Australia, touring and exploring the country. Besides his wife, Chuck is survived by his son, Robert Lane; grandchildren Corabelle (Cooper) Terry and Brody Lane; and great-grandchild Constance Terry. His son, Jeffrey Lane, and brother-in-law, John Kowalski preceded him in death. His sister, Pat Kowalski and nephew, Alan (Brenda) Kowalski; in-laws, cousins, nieces, nephews and innumerable friends also survive him.

Chuck, who will be incredibly missed, leaves an enduring legacy of daily laughter, a boundless sense of humor, and the very best bear hugs. Even

though he is gone from our side his light remains. Chuck lived a life of significance, a life that mattered, a life of caring and love.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026 at All Saints Lutheran Church,13350 S. LaGrange Rd., Orland Park, IL. Visitation will be held from 10:00-11:30 a.m., followed by a church service at 11:30. Rather than being somber, a colorful dress code would be appreciated. Shine bright and wear a smile to honor Chuck’s memory.

In lieu of flowers, donations to whitesoxcharities.org would be preferred.

Thoughts and memories can be shared on legacy.com.