1938
2017
Charles “Chuck” R. Degener, of Grants Pass, Oregon, passed away on Wednesday, May 10,
2017. Chuck was born on February 4, 1938, in Mason City, Iowa. He was raised by his parents, Paul
and Bessie L. Degener. He graduated from Hudson High School in 1956. During his final years in high school, Chuck joined the U.S. Naval Reserves. He went into active duty after graduation. Most of his active tour of duty was spent in the Mediterranean.
After leaving the Navy, he went back to Iowa, married a local girl and started farming. It didn't take too long for him to realize he wanted to do something besides farming with his life, so they move to California. After spending a few years in California, they moved to Grants Pass, Oregon. Soon after moving he got a divorce and later met and married the love of his life. On September 18, 1976, he married Dineen Holthus. Together they had one son Rodney Allen Degener.
In 1988, Chuck decided to enjoy his life as a father so he retired from his job as an RV Service Manager to be able to attend all of his son’s ball games, school plays, scouting activities and band competitions.
When not chasing after one of Rod's activities, Chuck enjoyed camping, fishing, just sitting by the water, or working in his yard at home.
He is survived by his wife, Dineen; son, Rodney (Cheryl); four grandchildren, Matthew Rabjohn, Amy (Logan) Eldred, Christina Rabjohn and Brandy Rabjohn; and six great-grandchildren Nevaeh, Logan, Ivan, Lillyana, Maliha and Michael. Also surviving is his brother-in-law, Jay (Ginny) Holthus; mother-in-law, Marjorie Holthus; two nephews, Justin (Courtney) and John (Ashlie) Holthus; along with many cousins still in Iowa.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, June 2, 2017 at Chapel of the Valley-L.B. Hall Funeral Home at 11 am. Chuck’s family has requested attendees wear bright colors and no black.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation; JDRF, 26 Broadway, 14th Floor, New York, NY 10004
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Chapel of the Valley-L.B. Hall Funeral Home.
1 Entry
May 25, 2017
Linda Trumbly
Chuck made everyday life more fun. I cannot remember a time spent with him that didn't have me laughing.
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Funeral services provided by:
Chapel of the Valley-L.B. Hall Funeral Home2065 Upper River Rd, Grants Pass, OR 97526
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