Charles (Chuck) Fredrick Lange, 95, of Galesburg, Illinois, passed away at his home on August 12, 2026. Born on July 13, 1931, in Burlington, Iowa, to Urban and Wilma Lange. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Urban Lange Jr, sister Barbara Kirshgassner, half-brother Jack Walk, and son-in-law Robert Hawkins.
Chuck dedicated his life to his family, his profession, and his community.
Chuck graduated from the University of Iowa with a degree in Pharmacy. He was the longtime owner of West Drug and Family Pharmacy in Galesburg, where he was known for his genuine care and his ability to greet every customer by name. Though he “retired” in 1990, his passion for the profession kept him behind the counter for another 25 years as a contract pharmacist for several small-town communities. He officially retired in 2015.
Chuck was an outstanding high school athlete. He participated in gymnastics, basketball, and football. He was an exceptional quarterback, often chosen as player of the week in the local newspaper, until a knee injury ended his career. He was close to getting a scholarship to Notre Dame until the knee injury happened, a disappointment that haunted him throughout his life. Outside of work, Chuck was a competitive athlete and socialite. He spent his downtime playing handball (won a B Level National Championship in the 70’s), he also enjoyed racquetball, and golf. He enjoyed traveling, reading, and a quiet game of solitaire. A man of faith, Chuck was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church and lent his voice to the church choir.
His commitment to service was evident through his leadership in numerous organizations. He served as the President of the American Red Cross, the YMCA, and the American Heart Association, and was a dedicated member of the Illinois Pharmacy Association.
Chuck is survived by his devoted wife of 25 years, Jeanne Lange and her daughter, Susan (Neal) Brown and two grandchildren, Lucci and Lydia. He was a supportive father to his four children: Kevin (Terrie) Lange of Arizona, Kelly (Mark) Haider of Minnesota, and Karyl Hawkins of Arkansas (with Treva Lange-Svec); and Jewell Lange (Travis) of Kansas (with Linda Lange). His children will dearly miss his weekly calls, love, and the life lessons he imparted.
He also leaves behind seven grandchildren: Nick Lange, Sophia Lange, Chase (Chrissy) Haider, Tori Haider, Ollie Urbanski, Mackenzie Stanford, and Leland Stanford; as well as two great-grandchildren, Ceci and Cyrus Haider.
Cremation has taken place and the family will be honoring Chuck privately. In lieu of flowers, donations to the YMCA of Galesburg can be made or you can grill a good steak and have a glass of scotch and toast Chuck! Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral and Cremation Services of Galesburg Chapel is honored to serve the family. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.h-p-w.com.
