Elbert “Butch” Chron (1916-2008)
CHARLESTON, IL – Elbert L. “Butch” Chron, age 92 of Charleston, passed from this life at approximately 3:00 a.m. on Saturday (August 16, 2008) at Hilltop Convalescent Center in Charleston. Funeral Services celebrating his life will be held at Adams Funeral Chapel, 2330 Shawnee Drive in Charleston, on Tuesday (August 19) at 1:00 p.m. with Reverend Phil Nevius officiating. Interment with Military Rites conducted by the Honor Guard of the Charleston VFW Paul McVey Post 1592 will follow in Roselawn Cemetery, Charleston. Visitation will be held at the funeral chapel from 11:30 until Service time. Mr. Chron was born in Charleston, Missouri on February 3, 1916 the son of Ward Lee and Minnie (Crader) Chron. In his youth, he moved first to Cairo, Illinois and then later to Charleston. He is survived by one son, Michael of Charleston. In addition several nieces and nephews are scattered throughout the Midwest. He was preceded in death by his wife of forty-nine years, Virginia Lois (Henry) Chron, who died October 12, 1991 and a son, Joseph Alan Chron who passed away in Houston, Texas on January 1, 1990. “Butch” as he was fondly called, enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1941, shortly after his marriage to Lois Henry on November 19th. He flew in both the European and Japanese Theaters and earned several citations and medals. While proudly serving his country, he also earned his Wings and Captains Bars. Upon release from the war, he entered into a partnership with Elmer Pearcy and formed “Pearcy’s Packing.” He retired from the meat processing business in 1972. Through the years, Butch never forgot his army buddies and maintained contact with them, attending many of their reunions. During his retirement years he was fond of taking short trips and was an avid St. Louis Cardinal Baseball fan. He often said that his two favorite major league teams were the Cardinals and any team playing the Cubs! He always found the time to spoil and pamper his dog, J. Fred. In his earlier years, Mr. Chron served as Exalted Ruler of the Charleston Elks B.P.O. E. #623 and bowled in leagues at the Elk’s Lodge during the 1960’s. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Old State Road Christian Church Disciples of Christ of which he was a Charter Member. Gifts may be left on the Memorial Table at the Visitation or Services or mailed to Adams Funeral Chapel, 2330 Shawnee Drive, Charleston, IL 61920.