Chalmer Reber

Chalmer L. “Charlie” Reber, 98, of Grundy Center, formerly of Decatur, IN, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 7, 2010 at his home in Grundy Center, IA, of natural causes. Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, November 10, 2010 at Engelkes-Abels Funeral Home in Grundy Center, IA, with Pastor Matt Miller officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the funeral service at the funeral home. Burial will be held privately by the family in Indiana.


Charlie was born September 23, 1912 in Decatur, IN to his parents Marion and Von Reber. He grew up and graduated high school in Decatur, IN.


Charlie managed a cocktail lounge in the Chicago area; there he met many famous Chicago baseball players as well as the “Three Stooges.” During this time he also worked at a defense plant in the Chicago area.


He was united in marriage to his wife Florence on April 20, 1940. They soon welcomed their daughter, Linda, into their family. Charlie relocated his family back to Decatur, IN where he then began driving trucks and school busses. Charlie then began to farm on his family’s farm and worked there until his retirement in 1974.


Charlie and his wife Florence enjoyed traveling for many years. Together they saw much of the country and Canada, traveling in their motor home. However, on June 19, 1986 Charlie’s wife, Florence passed away. In the fall of 1986 Charlie decided to take a trip. It was on this trip to Texas he met his special friend, Gladys Van Deest. They began their relationship and split their time between Iowa and Indiana. They spent 24 happy years together.


Charlie enjoyed dominos, bingo, casinos and “good” scotch whiskey.


Charlie is survived by his daughter Linda (Perry) Sheets; his grandson Tyler (Kris) Sheets; his great-grandson Austin Sheets, who he adored; his special friend Gladys Van Deest; and his special friends and family in Iowa and Kansas. He is preceded in death by his parents, wife Florence Reber; his 2 sisters and 5 brothers.