Some sad news here at Intrigued. I had mentioned previously we were informed of serious health issues Linda’s brother was going through. With a heavy heart Charles (Chuck) Barton was laid to rest in Blue Grass, IA yesterday at age 76.
Please hit the jump for more background on Linda’s oldest brother.
There is a 20 year gap between Linda and her oldest brother (19 between her other brother Don). In essence, Linda and I are the “babies” of our families as the difference between my two older brothers is 9 and 10. Linda and I met at our place of employment soon after leaving our respective colleges. I remember to this day the first time I was introduced to her family. When we arrived at her parent’s house, there were Chuck and Don waiting on the couch to make sure I was good enough for their little sister. Quite intimidating as the Iowa corn grows them big over there – Linda is close to 6′ and her brothers towered over her – add into the mix Chuck, at the time and later her other brother, was a member of the Sheriff’s Dept. Tall and carried handcuffs and a gun for a living. I must have done something right as they accepted me into the family and always make me feel welcome whenever we get together.
Sgt Fluffy as his fellow worker’s referred to him as (never me, of course, did I mention he carried a gun) gave 40 years of service to Scott County, many as sergeant in their civil department. His son mentioned in this role he never had to wear the standard uniform, but did have an incredible collection of over 100 ties, many on display during his ceremony. He was an avid photographer of local professional sports, crime scenes, stock car races and nature/wildlife. A definite area where we bonded as he would always be eager to show me his latest snaps or new gear. He was always willing to lend a hand, quick with a joke, well crafted (often crude) pranks and never let any ambiguity exist on where he stood on the latest political landscape or news of the day – qualities I always admired in Chuck. He always wore a smile and it never took long before you were laughing right along with him.
He leaves behind his wife Cathy of 50 years, 5 children (Joyce, David, Judy, Cindi and Bobbi), 6 grandchildren (Austin, Hunter, Sydney, Owen, Charlotte and Finley), his brother Don and his sister “Sam” which I was quickly made aware was Linda’s “ordained” named by Chuck who wanted another brother and wasn’t pleased with what arrived from the hospital. He carried the alternative masculine nicknames for his own daughters as well – new guests to the family outings need a guide to whose-who or confusion sets in quick. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention his beloved Shih Tzu name Cujo. With the help of his SGT Fluffy nickname and his constant furry companion at his side that first intimidating impression with him on the family couch awaiting my first arrival were replaced with the real truth, a kind individual with a heart bigger than his stature and an unselfish abundance of humor. I will truly miss him.
With deepest sympathies to Linda, her brother, his family and friends left behind, take solace in the memories of what time we did have with Chuck or should I now say, Sergeant Fluffy.
Life Intrigued 