Charles "Chuck" R Ward JR, 64 of Mendota passed away 10/16/2025 at home with the love of his life, Marilyn Hensley by his side, along with two of his daughters Cindy and Brenda.  Chuck passed away after finding out he had cancer that had spread very fast. He found out he had lung cancer on 09/23/2025. Chuck worked in the steel mill for many years. His last job was at Sapp Brothers in Peru. He brought smiles to everyones face.  He decided to take early retirement to be with his love, 24/7 in June of 2023. Chuck was born on 11/29/1960 in Kewanee IL to Eleanor and Charles Ward. He is survived by his loving  partner of years, Marilyn Hensley and daughthers, Brenda Ward, Erika & Zachary Duke, Cynthia & John Reynolds, Charlie Ward and two bonus daughters that he loved like his own, Valerie Rodriguez and Vanessa Rodriguez. Grand children Taylyn Piskie, Hailee Moniack (Cameron), Jillian Anderson (Kendrick), Savannah Duke, Aubrielle and Tabitha Rodriguez, Delliah and Liam Highsmith. Sisters Kim Winfree, Sandy & Paul Hampton, Fay & Willie Anness, Mildred Ward, and his brother, William Ward. He was proceed in death by infant son Charles R Ward 3rd, His parents Charles and Eleanor and sister Lois Ward.  Cremation care was provided by Horner-Merritt Funeral Home.   Following his wishes, there will be no services for Chuck.