Charles Edward Darrow

Charles Edward Darrow, 88 passed away on June 29, 2015. He was born to Howard & Jenny (Newman) Darrow on October 26, 1926. The house still stands southeast of Fairbury, on the Darrow Homestead where he was born.

Charles had many memories of walking to school more than 2 miles in fresh snow. Also, working on the farm as a young boy with two work horses, named Mouse & Queen.

Some of his fondest childhood memories were traveling by the train to Lincoln, for the state fair, and riding into town in their horse and buggy, drawn by their beloved horse, Dolly.

Charles’ father, Howard, would often deliver hay to town to sell and bring home 1 cent worth of Red Hot Candy for him. One day his father brought home 5 cents worth of candy and he never forgot that. Charles went to school at District 69, a one room school house. He graduated high school at Endicott in 1944. Charles served in the National Guard for several years and farmed his entire life.

He loved farming and was most proud of having the farm in the Darrow name for more than a century. He was forced to retire from farming in 1977 because of health reasons. After retiring, he enjoyed collecting toys related to farming.

He was a member of the Endicott United Methodist Church and served on many boards, including Chair of the Church Council.

Survivors include his son Howard Darrow of Fairbury, and Grandson Dr. Charles Darrow of Lincoln, NE.

He was preceded in death by his parents Howard & Jenny Darrow and Sisters Verlene Darrow, Colene Achtemeier and Gertrude Swett.

A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday August 2, 2015 from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. at 1214 H Street in Fairbury. Memorials will go to the Family's Choice. Gerdes-Meyer Funeral Home in Fairbury is in charge of arrangements.