Charles Pelan

On January 7, 2026, at 9:55 am, Charles Francis Pelan went to meet his Heavenly Father, with his daughters by his side.

He was born in Wood River, IL, on September 2, 1938. Charles was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 62 years, Barbara C. Pelan; his parents, Charles M. Pelan and Irene H. Andra; and a brother, Jerome G. Pelan.

He is survived by his three loving daughters, Sheri Frazier and her husband, Greg, Lori Pelan, and Elizabeth Lee and her husband, Michael; his dear sister, Evelyn Geideman; his grandchildren, Michael Frazier, Ryan Frazier, Jaime Armstrong, Jacob Waddell, Abigail Ebert, Reagan Waddell, Patrick Owens, James Hull, Tyler Svoboda, Heather Lee, and Nicki Skelton, along with their spouses or significant others; 11 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Charles began his career as an educator with Bethalto School District, where he touched many lives through his dedication to education. In 1990, he transitioned into the financial world and opened his own investment firm, which he successfully ran until his retirement in 2007. After selling his business, Charles moved to Florida full-time to enjoy the next chapter of his life.

Charles never met a stranger, his warm personality and love for dancing made him the life of every party. He embraced every opportunity to celebrate and connect with others. From his early days as an educator to his years as an investment broker, Charles lived a life full of purpose, joy, and generosity.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 16, 2026, from 9 to 10:45 am, at Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11 am, at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church, with Father Tom Liebler as celebrant. Burial will take place at Valhalla Memorial Park in Godfrey after mass.

Memorials are suggested to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Online condolences and guestbook may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.

Obit Provided By:
Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home