Charles E. Utley

Charles Eugene "Sonny" Utley, 74, of Flat Rock, IL, died August 9, 2020, at Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Newburgh, IN. He was born February 20, 1946, in Robinson, IL, to Charles Eugene, Sr. & Ruth Geraldine (Christine) Utley, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his sons, Christopher Joe Utley and Michael Paul Utley; and by his sisters, Lillie Shook and Rose Wallace. On February 9, 1963, he married Sue Thomlinson, and she survives. He is also survived by his daughter & son-in-law, April Utley & Monty Hawley (Flat Rock, IL); by his son & daughter-in-law, Brentley & Stacy Utley (Robinson, IL); by 10 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren, as well as another on the way; by his brother, Bill Utley (Newton, IL); Ruth Ann & Chuck Bergbower (Newton, IL); as well as several nieces and nephews. Sonny grew up in the Hardinville area and worked as a logger for several years alongside his father-in-law. He'd eventually find employment with Honey Creek Township before getting on with Montgomery Township, where he worked for several years before retiring in 2008. Away from work, chances were, he was outside, often with a fishing pole in hand. He enjoyed countless hours of peace on the porch he and his grandson built, a project that was a great source of pride in his life. He also found satisfaction tending to his garden. By all accounts, Sonny had a green thumb, as evidenced by the sheer amount of produce that he shared with his friends and family. They will remember Sonny as a hard-working man who lived life his way. Though he could be set in his ways, he was known to extend a helping hand to anybody in need. We are thankful for his life and know that his impact will last for years to come. Per his wishes, he will be cremated without a public service. The Goodwine Funeral Home in Flat Rock is in charge of arrangements.