Charles Carney

Charles Royden Carney, a devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend passed away on March 10, 2025, at the age of 86.  He was born on May 16, 1938, in Vandalia, Illinois.  He was a deeply caring and compassionate man and lovingly shaped every person and community he lived in.

He married his soulmate, Helen Marie Ballah, on August 14, 1960, and together they shared over six decades as a couple.  The enduring love they shared was a prime example of unshakeable commitment.  Everyone could see that he cherished his lovely bride for the entirety of their life together.  His immense joy came from his family, especially his three daughters Carolyon Bagwell (Scott), Melissa Corbin (Dan), and DeAnna McCandless (Tim).  He leaves behind a legacy of love, extending to his grandchildren: Austin Bagwell (Taylor), Ian Bagwell, Tiffany McGrew (Marc), Trevor Greene, Aiden McCandless, Alaina McCandless, Alexander McCandless, and Andrew McCandless.  His great grandchildren: Arthur Bagwell, Tristan Bagwell, Elyana McGrew, Kora McGrew and Enrique Martnez.

Beyond his role as husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, Charles was the jack of all trades and master of most.  He honorably served his country while in the Army Reserve and also joined the Detroit, Michigan police department as a reserve officer. He had masterful knowledge throughout his lifetime, especially in mechanical work creating, repairing, inventing and upgrading everything and anything with an engine.  There was no task that he could not do and if he did not know how, he would figure it out.  This mastery extended to flying as well, for he was a qualified single engine pilot. Beyond mechanics, he had a creative side that came out through photography and glass art sculpture. He also loved fishing along with being an exceptional gardener.  He cherished teaching people about his love, knowledge, and experience with gardening and truly believed that anyone could have a green thumb but as many of us found out, this just was not entirely true. He had a gift that was undeniable. But there was much more to him than sculpting through dirt.  He was just as fond of making art in the kitchen, for baking was his forte.  His sourdough biscuits and pecan pie had no rival and would leave you licking your lips.  If people were on the sweeter side of life, then there was a high chance that Charles was their idol.  With those he cherished, he never hesitated to give his time to share a cup of steaming hot black coffee, alongside a sweet indulgence usually made by his hands.  Throughout his life, he sought to offer assistance to those who were less fortunate because he cared about the community around him.  His life emulated Christlike character in all walks and roles of his life.

Charles was a strong, kind and caring man that stood firmly by his faith, family and friends throughout his life.  He touched countless lives and will be kindly remembered for all the good deeds he did for generations to come.  All those that had the fortune of knowing him, will miss him dearly.

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