Charles "Chuck" Ross Gautcher, 80, of Sycamore, Illinois, passed away on July 16, 2025, surrounded by his family.  Born on September 17, 1944, in Sycamore, IL, Chuck was the beloved son of Lester and Dorothy (Shoop) Gautcher.

Chuck was a proud graduate of Sycamore High School, class of 1963 where he was a standout athlete. He played football served as team captain. He played basketball during his school years, reflecting his lifelong passion for sports and competition, which he passed onto his sons and grandchildren.

After graduating from high school, Chuck served honorably in the United States Army from 1966 to 1968, including a tour of duty in Vietnam. He was a proud member of C Company, 5th Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment and was awarded the Bronze Star for his meritorious service during ground combat operations.

On July 26, 1971, Chuck married the love of his life, Dianne Perusse.  Together they raised three sons—Greg, Chad, and Brett—instilling in them the values of integrity, hard work, and family.

Chuck owned and operated Sycamore Plumbing, earning a reputation for reliability and fairness in his craft. Later, he transitioned into work as a plumber at Northern Illinois University (NIU), retiring in 2009 after 23 years

A man of many hobbies and simple joys, Chuck was an avid fisherman, a fierce 16" softball competitor for many years, and someone who loved his morning coffee, a cold beer, long drives in his Corvette, and spirited conversation with his buddies. He was also a proud and engaged grandfather, always present for games, recitals, and family gatherings. In recent years, Chuck poured his heart into renovating an old sheet metal shop, transforming it into a beloved clubhouse and gathering spot for his family—a space filled with warmth, laughter, and memories.

He was predeceased by his parents and his siblings Howard Smith, Robert Smith, Barbara Gautcher Rafferty.

Chuck is survived by his devoted wife, Dianne; sons, Greg (Dana), Chad, Brett (Joanna); and his grandchildren, Jillian, Carys, Burke, Marin, Brooks, and Charlee. He also leaves behind his sisters-in-law; brother-in-law; and cherished nieces, nephews, cousins and a wide circle of friends who were like family.

Chuck's legacy lives on in the family he loved fiercely, the friendships he nurtured over decades, and the boldness with which he lived his life.

The visitation will be held from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, July 25, 2025, at Butala Funeral Home in Sycamore, IL.  A Celebration of Life will be held from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at the Gautcher Family Shop, 326 N. Sacramento Street, Sycamore, IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Chuck's honor to Shriners Children's Chicago, a cause close to his heart.

To sign the online guestbook, or share a special memory please visit, www.ButalaFuneralHomes.com