Charles Altes

Charles W. “Charlie” Altes, 65, of Bloomington died on Sunday, May 3, 2026 at Carle BroMenn Medical Center in Normal with family by his side.

The first son of James D. and Lilly M. (Foley) Altes, he was born in Bloomington, IL on July 30, 1960, just one day after his father’s birthday. Charlie was named for his late paternal grandfather, Charles Walter Altes.

Surviving are his daughter, Amanda Sutton, Bloomington, IL, grandchildren Aalyiah Altes and Trayvion Altes, both of Bloomington, IL, siblings Mary Koppers, Normal, IL, Marie (Rob) Clodfelter, Morris, IL, Dale (Beverly) Altes, Sandy Oaks, TX, Raymond (Joyce) Altes, Stanford, IL, niece Melissa Altes, Roanoke, IL, nephews James (Janis) Mott, Bloomington, IL, Michael Altes, Bloomington, IL, Steve (Blake) Mattingly, Chenoa, IL, Nathan (Heather) Altes, Bloomington, IL, Kurtis (Jana) Altes, East Peoria, IL, forever love Tena Keith, Normal, IL and beloved companions and the keepers of his heartstrings, his precious feline furbabies, Baby Boy and Trixie.

Preceding him in death were his parents, granddaughter Natalyia Altes, stepfather Richard Schoon, and brother-in-law James Koppers.

Charlie attended Bloomington High School and in earlier years was a member of Evangelical United Methodist Church in Bloomington. He worked primarily as a mechanic but was also well known as a skilled, self-taught, jack of all trades. Friendly, caring and outgoing, he never met a stranger and was in constant demand to help out others with car repairs or home improvements.

Amanda Sutton’s reflections on her father: My dad Charlie was the kind of man who could do just about anything — if something was broken, he could fix it; if someone needed help, he was there without hesitation. He was incredibly smart, talented, and hardworking, but what people will remember most was his heart. Charlie had a way of making people laugh with his quick wit and sense of humor, and he could make even ordinary moments unforgettable. He loved deeply, cared fiercely for the people in his life, and would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need. Whether he was sharing stories, teaching what he knew, or simply spending time with those he loved, Charlie left a lasting impression on everyone lucky enough to know him. He will be greatly missed, forever loved, and remembered for the kindness, strength, laughter, and love he brought into the world.

Aalyiah and Trayvion Altes shared their thoughts as well: Grandpa was a great man! We will miss him and always love him. We are thankful for the times we had with him and all that he was able to teach us. We have lasting memories that we will cherish forever.

Beck Cremation is assisting the family with arrangements. A private family inurnment will take place in East Lawn Memorial Gardens Cemetery, Bloomington. Family and friends are invited to attend Charlie’s Celebration of Life at Hike Haven in Forrest Park, 1310 Hike Haven Ct, Bloomington, IL 61701. Please bring a dish to share.

Memorial donations may be made to an animal shelter or charity of the donor’s choosing.