Charles D. Brooks of Chesterton passed away Monday, Dec. 13, 2010 at his home. He was 69.

He was born May 9, 1941 in Cave City, Ky. to Charlie and Zelma Brooks, who preceded him in death. He was married to Betty Sue (Grant) Brooks, who preceded him in death in 2006.

Charles is survived by his son John (wife Lena) Brooks of Michigan City; daughter Stephanie (husband Jon) Stefanko of Michigan City; brother Mitchell (Janice) Brooks of Florida; sisters Mildred Smith of Cave City and Judy (Danny) Haydon of Cleveland, Tenn.; grandchildren Jami Brooks, Ashley Eldridge, Preston Walker, Nathan Stefanko, Nicolas Stefanko and Ryan Stefanko; two great granddaughters; special nephew Robert (Lindsay) Grant; and his special buddy, Spike.

He was also preceded in death by one brother and two sisters.

Charles was an area resident since 1968, coming from Kentucky. He retired from Bethlehem Steel and loved gardening and his family.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, Dec. 16 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Edmonds & Evans Funeral Home, 517 Broadway, Chesterton. Private family services will be held on Friday with burial at Chesterton Cemetery. www.EE-FH.com