Charles Edward “Chuck” Cooksley, 87, Luverne, died Monday, Feb. 1, 2021, at Sanford USD Medical Center in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Because of the concern for public health, a private family funeral service will take place at the United Methodist Church in Luverne, with burial at Maplewood Cemetery in Luverne.
Charles Cooksley was born Jan. 15, 1934, to Arthur and Wilhelmiene (Koll) Cooksley on the family farm near Hardwick. He graduated from Edgerton Public High School in Edgerton.
He married Sarah “Sally” Keay on Dec. 17, 1955, in Luverne. They were blessed with two daughters. The family moved to Olivia and then to Clinton, where Chuck worked at the lumber yards. In 1966 they moved back to Luverne, and he began working at AR Wood Manufacturing. He then worked at Terrace Park Dairy, delivering milk to customers.
In retirement, Chuck and Sally enjoyed summer fishing outings and annual fall trips to the North Shore. Chuck cherished his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and attended their activities when he was able.
Chuck was a member of the United Methodist Church in Luverne. He and his wife enjoyed playing cards and cribbage during their daily “happy hour.” He was a devoted fan to the Minnesota Gophers, Vikings, and especially the Twins.
He is survived by his wife, Sally, of Luverne; his daughters, Dixie (Alan) Aanenson of Luverne and Tammy (Dave) Smeins of Luverne; seven grandchildren, Michael (Meghan) Aanenson, Rebecca (Tim) Banck, David (Brittany) Smeins, Dana (Josh) Klay, Dustin (Dawn) Smeins, Darcy (friend Garret Beaner) Smeins, and Diana (fiancé Nick Mark) Smeins; 15 great-grandchildren, Tucker, Anna, Brady, Zoey, Hailey, Jaiden, Annie Jo, Charlie, Cade, Ellie, Jase, Dawson, Oliver, Arthur and Gracie; longtime friend Charlie Carter; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; six brothers, Frank, Joseph, Richard, Robert, James and Danny; and three sisters, Mary Birkeland, Ruth Peterson and Lois Van Hove.
Arrangements were provided by Hartquist Funeral Home of Luverne, www.hartquistfuneral.com.
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