Charles Edward McInnes

Charles Edward McInnes

Charles Edward McInnes, of Centerville, Iowa passed away peacefully, leaving behind a lifetime marked by dedication to his family, his career, his faith, and the communities he served.

Charles was born on December 17, 1926, at home in Albia, Iowa, to Joe and Nellie McInnes, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Joe Jr. and Frederick, and his sisters, Helen and Lucille.

Charles graduated from Albia High School with the Class of 1944. Following graduation, he proudly served his country in the United States Army during World War II. He was initially trained as a Mechanized Cavalry radio operator and later became an instructor at the school. When the war ended and the school closed, Charles served as an Army cook until his honorable discharge in December 1946.

On May 11, 1947, Charles married his high school sweetheart, Mary O. Smith, in Albia, Iowa. Together, they shared 74 wonderful years of marriage until her passing. Their union was blessed with three children: Rebecca Jo McInnes of Norwalk, Iowa; Katherine Ann Arciaga and her husband, Rev. Daniel, of Addison, Illinois; and Charles Scott McInnes and his wife, Ruth, of Denison, Texas. Charles was a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

Charles continued his education after his military service, graduating from the American Institute of Business in 1948 with a degree in accounting. He furthered his education at Drake University and Indian Hills Community College.

His professional career began with Farm Bureau Insurance Company in Des Moines, Iowa, where he worked in the Data Processing Department. In 1951, he accepted an accounting position with Iowa Southern Utilities Company in Centerville, Iowa. During his 40 years with Iowa Southern, Charles held several positions and became a respected business analyst and dedicated employee. He retired on December 31, 1991. In the late 1960s, he was also honored to represent Iowa Southern when asked to serve on Governor Robert Ray’s special “Governor’s Economy Committee.”

Charles believed strongly in giving back to his community. During his years in Centerville, he served as co-chairman of the March of Dimes campaign in the 1950s and participated in the production of many musicals performed by the Music Ensemble Club. His faith was an important part of his life, and he was very active in the First United Methodist Church, where he held many leadership positions over the years. He was also instrumental in forming the new Faith United Methodist Church of Centerville.

His community involvement extended to many organizations. Charles was active in the Elks Club, Masons, York Rite, and Shrine. He was the first president of the Centerville Concert Association and served on both the Centerville Low Rent Housing Board and the Centerville Municipal Housing Board. He was also a past member of the Barbershop Chorus.

After moving to Cambridge, Minnesota, Charles continued his tradition of serving others. He was active in the Cambridge United Methodist Church, participated in the Cambridge Medical Center’s Harbor Room Men’s Cancer Support Group, and was an active leader in the exercise program at Mill Ridge Terrace Senior Living Community.

Charles enjoyed the simple pleasures of life and treasured his time with family. He loved traveling, playing golf, working puzzles, reading, and spending time on the computer. He took pride in keeping his home and yard neat and trim and was always willing to lend his time and talents to others.

Charles leaves behind a legacy of service, faith, hard work, and devotion to his family. He will be remembered for the many lives he touched through his work, community involvement, church service, and, most importantly, the love he shared with his family.

He is survived by his three children, seven grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, along with numerous extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

Charles will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.