Charles "Charlie" Edward Scruggs, 92, of Glen Ellyn, IL, died peacefully on Sunday, Jan. 30, 2011, at St. Patrick's Residence in Naperville, IL. He was born in Sultana, CA, on Sept.25, 1918 the son of the late Ida Melissa, nee Craven, and the late Edward "Ned" Finch Scruggs. He grew up on a fruit ranch near Fresno, CA, and graduated with a degree in chemistry from the University of California at Berkeley. He then served in World War II as a radar officer with the rank of lieutenant commander in the United States Naval Reserve. Charlie met the late Christine Mary Heape in New York City, where they were wed in 1944. Upon discharge from the Navy, they moved to Chicago, and Charlie began his thirty-seven year career with the American Can Company. Trained as a Master Brewer, he retired as the National Manager of Customer Relations, Beverage Technical Services. Charlie and Christine lived in Glen Ellyn nearly continuously since 1952, where the family attended St. Petronille Catholic Church and their four children attended the parish grade school. An avid do-it-yourselfer, Charlie also enjoyed gardening and cooking. He loved tennis and continued played into his 70's. In later life he studied family genealogy and served two terms as president of the Scruggs Family Association, Charlie is survived by his children: Dr. Virginia Scruggs of Glen Ellyn, John (late Sue) Scruggs of Seattle, Brian (Jean) Scruggs of Evanston and Dr. James (Nancy) Scruggs of Glen Ellyn; by grandchildren, Jessica, Josh, Ashley, Simone, Jack, Peter, and Matt; by great-grandchildren Rex and Johnny; and by many nieces and nephews; he was preceded in death by his wife, Christine; and sisters, Alice Stouffer of Dinuba, CA, and Margaret Lutz of Berkeley, CA. Charlie, who volunteered to serve his country in it's greatest time of need will be remembered as a devoted family man, a loyal friend, a generous neighbor, and a respected business professional. He always did his best. You could count on Charlie! The family will receive friends for viewing on Thursday, Feb. 3, 2011, between 4 and 8 p.m., at The Leonard Memorial Home , 565 Duane St., Glen Ellyn, IL. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, 10 a.m., at St. Petronille Catholic Church, 420 Glenwood Avenue, Glen Ellyn, IL. Prayers will be said at the Funeral home at 9 a.m. Interment will be in Assumption Cemetery, 1 S. 510 Winfield Road, Wheaton, IL.

Published: Chicago Tribune - 2/2/2011