Obituary of Charles Howard Brinkman

Charles (Chuck) Brinkman

November 25, 1959 – October 26, 2017

Chuck leaves behind his beloved wife of 26 years, Barb, and sons Robert (Robbie) and Steven.  He is also survived by his parents, Chuck and Carolyn Brinkman, and sister Christine Brinkman.  He was greatly loved by his many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Chuck was diagnosed with esophageal cancer on October 27th, 2016.  He fought bravely, continuing to work and travel, until he lost the battle one year later.

Chuck was born and raised in Kankakee, Illinois. He graduated from Herscher High School then attended Kankakee Community College before taking a position with the Bourbonnais Police Department.  Subsequently, Chuck moved to Los Angeles and worked with the sheriff’s department in Orange County.  Later, he went on to earn his Airframe & Powerplant license at Colorado Aero Tech School.

In July 1986, Chuck secured his dream job of working for United Airlines. Airplanes were his passion; he loved everything about them including solving problems and repairing them, as well as interacting with the passengers.  Ultimately, he was based in Chicago where he was beloved by his co-workers and was a dedicated member of the United Airlines family. 

Chuck was totally devoted to his wife Barb and their two boys.  Chuck and Barb were actively involved with the boys throughout grade school, high school, and college.  They have been active members of St. Christopher Catholic Church for over 20 years.  Chuck loved being around the kids and at times, acted like one himself.   Chuck relished attending the Cardinal Ritter football games on Friday evenings, enjoying his time with the football players and their families.  One of the biggest joys for Chuck and Barb was when Cardinal Ritter won the state championship in 2008. 

From the time he was very young, Chuck was a devoted Cubs fan.  The Cubs winning the World Series was a dream come true for him.  Whenever he watched the video of the Cubs story and the winning game, he had tears in his eyes. 

Chuck was the epitome of a good Christian man:  he never had a bad word to say about anyone, and he would help anyone in need.  He also had a wonderful sense of humor which he used to bring joy to all he knew.  Chuck saw all he met as children of God, and he treated everyone with respect and dignity. He was well loved by all who knew him.

A visitation will be held  at St. Christopher Church on Monday, October 30 from 4-8:00pm
Visitation from 10-11:00 am Tuesday, October 31 at St. Christopher Church.
Mass at 11:00 followed by internment at Calvary Cemetery.