Charles Allen "Chuck" Grimes, 65, of Elkhart, passed away peacefully at Elkhart General Hospital on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at 12:45 am following an illness. He was born on December 17, 1958, in Greenville, Ohio, to the late Neil Grimes and Mary (Chalmer Vanata) Hampton.

Chuck is survived by his significant other of 40 years, Kathy S. McCarty; his daughter, Krystal D. McCarty (George Y. Shamoun) of Elkhart; his son, Steven S. McCarty (Amber) of Elkhart; brothers, Scott and John Vanata (Mary) of Greenville, Ohio; and three grandchildren: Jacob Prieto, Rayne McCarty, and Xander McCarty. Preceding him in death were his brothers Terry Hampton and Neil Grimes, his sister Patricia Grimes, and his in-laws David and Mary McCarty.

Chuck was a self-employed handyman and worked for many years in production at various manufacturing facilities. He also spent time as a "Carnie," working at fairs and festivals, where he met the love of his life, Kathy, at the Bristol Homecoming in 1987 at a ride called "The Scrambler." He was passionate about cars, with a special fondness for '57 sky-blue Chevy Bel-Aires, and enjoyed attending car races and demolition derbies.

A nature lover, Chuck enjoyed camping, the outdoors, and was never one to sit still. He took pride in doing things himself, from yard work to helping neighbors. Chuck loved country music, particularly Creedence Clearwater Revival, and enjoyed watching Animal Planet and Street Outlaws.

In accordance with his wishes, no immediate services have been scheduled. Billings Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Elkhart have been entrusted with assisting the family.

Memorial donations in Chuck's name may be given in care of his daughter, Krystal.

To the Family