Charles Thomas Southerland, 91, of Preemption, passed away on Friday, June 13, 2025, at Unity Point Health-Trinity Bettendorf Hospital in Bettendorf, IA.

A private family gathering to honor Mr. Southerland will be held at a later date. Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, Milan is assisting the family.

Chuck was born on May 5, 1934, in Huntsville, TN to James Southerland and Coredalia (Cross) Southerland. He married Ruth M. LaMantia, on August 6, 1955, and was married nearly 70 years before Ruth passed away on May 1, 2025.

He worked for John Deere Plow and Planter Works in Moline, Illinois for 31 years, when he decided to take an early retirement option. After retiring he had a cabinet shop he ran out of his home for 28 years. Chuck enjoyed woodworking and building various projects which included, quilt racks for Ruth and other craft items.

Chuck loved spending time with family and friends. He enjoyed fishing, boating, water skiing, as well as many other outdoor activities. Ruth and he took many trips traveling on cruises and road trips with friends.

Chuck is survived by his children: Jeff Southerland of Andover, IL; Greg (Yolanda) Southerland of Moline, IL; Debra (David) Hippler of Gladbrook, IA; grandchildren: Sabrina (Edward) Oviedo of IL, Nicholas Southerland of IL, Cody Southerland of IL, Alushia (Blair) Fitzgerald of IA, Alexis (Alex) Hippler of CO, Andrew (Shelby) Hippler of KS; and great-grandchildren: Elayna Oviedo and Dominic Oviedo.

He was preceded in death by his wife Ruth Southerland, and by his parents James and Coredalia Southerland, brothers: James Southerland, Larry Barnes, and Bill, Sisters: Lillian and Vicky.