Charles “Mike” Pergl of Salem, IL, passed away September 27th at the age of 85. He is survived by his son, Colby, and 5 beloved stepchildren, Robert, Thomas, Julie, Evan, and Phillip, whom he raised with his wife of 34 years, Sally. He was preceded in death by his only sibling, sister Evelyn, his father, Charles Pergl, who fought in WWII and was a prisoner of war in Japan, and by his mother, Ellen Pergl, who lived to be OVER 100! She never required assisted living, drove until her 90s, and spent her entire life here in Illinois. She was a true staple of the community.
Mike was born in Alma on May 2, 1940. He graduated from Kinmundy High School in 1959. He excelled in track, baseball, pole-vaulting, and was a star basketball player, even though he wasn’t the tallest guy on the team. He was fast, a great shooter, and was famous for his “no-look pass”. His first job was mowing the local Cemetery, and his hard work resulted in him being one of the first in his class to have his own car. His mom was sad that he pulled all the beautiful Chrome off his new car, but hey, that was the style back then! After High School, Mike joined the Air Force and toured in Italy, and other places around the world. In 1971, he had his only child, son Colby Lee Pergl, with his wife Sherry “Sas” Pergl. He later remarried and raised five stepchildren as if they were his own. He was a very kind father, full of wisdom, guidance, love, and understanding. He rarely even raised his voice as he was a strong, yet gentle man.
Mike enjoyed fishing, hunting, sports, and could fix pretty much anything! Although very intelligent, he preferred blue-collar work and spent several years at the Caterpillar Factory in East Peoria. He later joined the Bonneville Power Administration as a “lineman”, climbing and working on power lines, many over 200 ft tall! He eventually retired and moved to Florida. (I know… BIG surprise!!) After many warm and happy years, his beautiful wife Sally passed in 2017. He then moved back home to central Illinois to be closer to his mother and the rest of the family. In early 2025, he was diagnosed with a very aggressive cancer. He fought hard and did everything right but succumbed to the disease just 6 months later. We are grateful he didn’t suffer long.
Charles “Mike” Pergl was a good father, dedicated husband, Brave Soldier, and true friend. He will be missed by many.
A celebration of life will be at noon on Saturday, November 1st at the Salem Community Center. Food and beverages will be provided by the family. Crouse Funeral Home in Salem is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be left at www.CrouseFH.com
