Charles G. Colegrove

Charles G. Colegrove, a cherished father, stepfather, grandfather, brother, and uncle, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2025, in Aurora, Illinois. Born on May 12, 1962,  in Batavia, IL  to Charles and Lois (Pirner) Colegrove. Charles lived a full and vibrant life, touching the hearts and lives of all who knew him.

Growing up in nearby Oswego, Charles was a proud graduate of Oswego High School, class of 1980. His early life was marked by a passion for athleticism and mechanics, a combination that would define much of his life's work and leisure. He was known for his handy, generous, and intelligent nature, traits that served him well both professionally and personally. Charles was a skilled mechanic who dedicated many years to working in the trades. His expertise and dedication to his craft were evident in the meticulous work he performed on the 88 cars he owned and restored throughout his life. His love for Camaros and Chevelles was well-known, and he took great joy in bringing these classic vehicles back to their former glory. His passion for cars extended to the racetrack, where he was an integral member of the pit crew for local stock car teams. For many years, Charles owned and operated Colegrove Creations, a company based in Oswego that prided itself on quality home remodeling and basement finishing. In his youth, Charles was an accomplished bodybuilder and enjoyed playing football. However, his heart remained with his love for cars and the community he built around them. At home, Charles could often be found relaxing with his favorite TV shows like "Home Improvement," or engrossed in movies starring his favorite actors, Steve McQueen and Clint Eastwood. The sound of '70s classic rock was the backdrop to his life, especially when he was under the hood of a car.

Charles's personal life was marked by love and companionship. In 1993, he married Kelly Conklin, and together they welcomed their son, Matthew. Although their marriage ended in 2010, Charles and Kelly remained lifelong friends, co-parenting Matthew with mutual respect and affection. In 2013, Charles found love again with Terri Swanson, and they shared a loving marriage until 2021. He leaves behind a loving family: his son Matthew Colgrove; stepchildren, Stephanie (Adam) Bentley and Daniel (Samm) Adams; grandchildren, Tanner and Arolyn; mother Lois Colegrove; sisters, Lori (Daniel) Parnow and Bonnie (Gil) Anderson; and nephews, Jeffrey, Mike, Steve, and Jake. Each family member will miss his generous spirit and his ability to fix anything that was broken, be it a car engine or a bad day.

Charles's life was a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and the simple joys of life. His legacy will live on in the engines he rebuilt, the stories shared in the garage, and the laughter that filled the rooms he entered. He was a man who knew the value of a day's work, the importance of family, and the pleasure of a well-deserved rest. As we say goodbye to Charles G. Colegrove, we celebrate a life well-lived and well-loved. His memory will continue to inspire and guide us, just as the roar of a '69 Camaro's engine echoes in the hearts of those who cherish classic cars. Charles will be deeply missed, but his impact on the world around him will never be forgotten.

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