Chuck Gillis, 77, of Terre Haute, Indiana, passed away November 19, 2024, in his home surrounded by family.  He fought a long battle with cancer with the support of many friends and family by his side.

Chuck was born in Terre Haute, Indiana to Charles Phillip Gilllis and Freda Rebecca Jones Gillis, who both preceded him in death.  His older brother John Gillis and wife Lynn reside in Metairie, Louisiana.  His younger brother Tom Gillis and wife Vicki reside in Florence, Alabama.

Chuck is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 54 years, Jan, his daughter Mitzi (Gillis) Cook, son Chad Gillis (Kelsey), and grandchildren Cameron Cook (Breanna) and Madison Cook.

Chuck was a Chicago Cubs fan and Indiana State University basketball and baseball fan.  He was also an avid fisherman until his grandson could throw a baseball.  He spent countless hours with him tossing the ball around in the backyard, batting lessons, and pitching lessons.  He never missed a ballgame and was his biggest fan. Recently enjoyed watching him get married.  He also enjoyed watching Madi dance for 16 years and never missed a recital.  He was thrilled when she chose to cheer and dance while attending Indiana State. He could watch the men’s basketball team and his granddaughter perform. He was so proud she is becoming a nurse and she helped care for him during his battle with cancer.  He loved his little fur baby, Lulu, who spent countless hours napping with him for the last two years. His entire family was the most important aspect of his life. 

Chuck was a 1965 graduate of Garfield High School.  He attended Indiana State University briefly before joining the United States Navy in 1966.  He served three tours in Vietnam until 1970 and was a proud veteran and American. 

Chuck worked in the automotive business for many years, retiring from Toyota of Terre Haute in April of 2020.  His personality, honesty, and gentle nature welcomed love and respect from everyone he worked with.  He never met a stranger and had a contagious smile that lit up a room.  His sense of humor was unforgettable and left us with so much laughter and many stories to tell.  He always said he wanted a “party” when it was his time to leave us.  We will honor his wish with a celebration of life in 2025.