FAIRBURY — Charles G. Kearfott, 59, of Fairbury, formerly of El Paso, passed away at 6:25 a.m. Friday (Dec. 31, 2010) at his residence surrounded by his family.

He was born on July 5, 1951, in Bloomington, a son of Loren M. and Mary M. Smith Kearfott. He married Mary E. Strauch on July 3, 1978, in Benson. She survives.

Also surviving are three sons, Clinton (Megan) Kearfott; Curtis (Nicole) Kearfott; and C.J. (Desiree) Kearfott; one daughter, Kelly Kearfott; two sisters, Sharon (Gene) Miller; and Janet (Jay) Self; three brothers, Jack (Bev) Kearfott; Dan (Denise) Kearfott; and Tom (Beth) Kearfott; 10 grandchildren; and 14 nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one nephew.

Charles worked as a cook at Illinois State University. He was an avid Bears and Cubs fan. He enjoyed golfing, bowling, skiing and fast-pitch softball.

He had previously owned Stick and Stones Tap in Benson and managed the Tall Oaks Country Club in Toluca and later the Indian Creek Golf Club in Fairbury.

Charles was an excellent joke teller. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle and will be missed dearly by all who knew him.

His funeral will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday at Ruestman-Harris Funeral Home, El Paso. Richard Scheuermann will officiate. Visitation will be 4 to 8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Burial will be in Clayton Township Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.ruestmanharrisfuneralhome.com.