East Central Reporter

In a Jun. 23 Facebook post, Illinois state Sen. Jason Plummer (R-Edwardsville) wrote about Chuck Hanfelder.

"Chuck Hanfelder," Plummer said in the post. "One of the absolute most good and decent people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. Let me tell you about Chuck. He worked hard and he was committed to his family and country. ...

"One of my favorite things about Chuck? After literally decades of selflessly supporting countless candidates, in 2019 Chuck agreed to run for the Board of Trustees of Lewis & Clark. He was elected at age 86 in his first general election and proudly served that institution until having to resign earlier this year. His dedication to his community and country can't be overstated."

Charles “Chuck” Hanfelder died on June 20, 2023, at the age of 90; according to an obituary published on AdVantage News.

Hanfelder was a military veteran, and he was involved with the Madison County Republicans. He had property in Calhoun County and enjoyed spending time with his children and their families. Hanfelder was married to his wife, Sonja, for 66 years. He is survived by his wife, sons, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, nieces and nephews. His funeral service was held on June 26.

After joining the Lewis & Clark Community College (L&C) Board of Trustees in 2019, Hanfelder retired in February 2023, according to the Record-Patriot. His board colleagues, along with L&C President Ken Trazka, praised Hanfelder on the occasion of his retirement.

"Chuck didn't have a lot of questions, but when he did they were good questions," Trzaska said. "I just appreciate his trust in the work, which can often times be complicated. So thank you, sir."

Toward the end of his Facebook post, Plummer made a closing statement.

"I received a text message from his son Tuesday at 2:00pm that Chuck had passed at 1:30pm," the senator said. "Devastating news. I will say this, though, Chuck was 90 and I don't know if he could have squeezed much more into such a full life. He was so many things - a husband, father, leader, soldier, friend, businessman, elected official, and so much more."

Plummer joined the Illinois Senate in 2019 after being elected to represent the people of the 54th Senate District, his website biography said. Outside of his legislative work, Plummer is the vice president of R.P. Lumber, a family-owned and operated business that has more than 80 locations throughout Illinois and several other states.