Charles "Chuck" Horton, 85, of Rochelle, loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, peacefully entered into eternal life on Friday, Jan. 7, 2011 surrounded by his family.
He was born on July 17, 1925 in Rochelle, IL, to Sylvester and Emma (Baker) Horton. He was
a successful bricklayer and masonry contractor for 46 years, mentoring many. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, taking rides in the country and spending time with his family and friends. Chuck served his country proudly as a United States Marine in WWII being part of the
4th Amphibious Unit from 1943 to 1945 in the South Pacific and is a lifetime member of VFW Post 3878. He greatly enjoyed sharing his memories and stories with family and friends of all ages. He was an active member of Calvary Lighthouse Church, serving and worshiping his
Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, with his church family. During his lengthy illness, he remained
strong in his faith, praying that all would come to the knowledge and acceptance of Jesus Christ's
love and saving grace. We have no doubt that he was received in Heaven with "Well done my
good and faithful servant."

He married the love of his life and soul mate: Ellen Rose Williams on Feb. 21, 1943 at the Baptist church parsonage in Rochelle by Rev. Blomgren. Survivors include his wife: Rose of Rochelle; 2 daughters: Judy (Doug) Hatfield of Rockford and Tammy (Brett) Milligan of Rochelle; Son-in-law: Harry Dubbs of Poplar Grove, IL; 4 grandsons: Jeff Hatfield of Rockford, Matthew (Shelly) Milligan of Ashton, Kevin (Noelle) Hatfield of Rockford and Chad (Lisa) Dubbs of Rockford; 2 granddaughters: Tara (Jason) Bybee of Rochelle and Crislene Dubbs of Freeport; 9 great grandchildren: Danika and Tori Hatfield, Jessica, Abby and Parker Milligan, Mackenzie and Gabe Bybee and Braden and Mason Dubbs all of whom he loved with all of his heart! He was preceded in death by his parents, son: Charles Eugene Horton, daughter: Janice Marie Dubbs; grandson: Christopher Todd; 4 sisters: Emma Smith, Berniece Carlson, Bernetta Trenholm and Bessie Plowman; and brother: Bill Horton.

Services at Calvary Lighthouse Church, 14409 Hemstock Road in Rochelle, on Thursday, Jan. 13, 2011 with Rev. Dr. James Horvath officiating at 10:30 AM. A pre-service visitation will be from 10:00 AM until service time at the church. Visitation at Unger-Horner Funeral Home in Rochelle on Wed. Jan. 12, 2011 from 4 to 7 PM. He will be laid to rest at Lawnridge Cemetery with full military honors. A memorial has been established.