Mr. Charles R. "Chuck" Sanders, 76, of Elkhart, passed away peacefully within the familiar confines of his own home on Monday, November 11, 2024 at 2:40 am after battling some extended health issues. He was born in Frankfort, Indiana on January 14, 1948 to the late Robert "Bob" and Julie Sanders and later married Judy A. Buckbee in Elkhart in 1992. She survives at home after 32 wonderful years together.

Along with his sweetheart Judy, Chuck is survived by his son Kurtis (Michelle) Sanders of Elkhart; his step-daughter Tracy R. Gooding, also of Elkhart; step-son Randy R. (Sarah) Buckbee of Indianapolis; grandchildren Kelly, Allison, Macy, Julie, Madison and Ryan Buckbee and Michael Sanders; and one great granddaughter. He is also survived by a host of loving extended family and good friends. Along with his parents, Chuck is preceded in death by a half-brother and a step-son-in-law.

Chuck's wish was to be cremated.  There will be a burial at Rice Cemetery in Elkhart at a later date. Billings Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Elkhart have been assisting with the arrangements.

Chuck worked most of his adult life in the area's RV industry as an accomplished woodworker and cabinetmaker, but his REAL love (outside of his family) were classic cars and "Hot Wheels" cars. Chuck was a founding member of the Michiana Classic Chevy Club, an organization dedicated to the preservation and display of classic 50's, 60's and 70's Chevrolets which has been active in the community with displays, drive-ins and parades for years. In fact, a well-known family story is that Chuck and Judy actually met while cruising the Elkhart/Goshen "strip". An "oooOOOgaah" horn on each other's car equaled 32 years together.

Chuck enjoyed making model cars from kits, visiting Southgate Crossing in Elkhart (CR. 26 & SR 19) to attend concerts and other functions and gatherings, and spending time with Judy and the children and grandchildren.