IL SR1020

Charles William Germain Sr. of Palos Hills passed away peacefully on September 21, 2012, at age 97.

Immigrated from the Netherlands in 1920 and worked for Illinois Bell for 50 years beginning in 1930, advancing from messenger to management positions including equipment engineer and Labor Relations roles.

Pursued education while working full-time, attending continuation school at Illinois Bell, Englewood High School four nights per week, and earning degrees from Wilson Junior College and Northwestern University in business administration (1964).

Received a Vail honorable mention citation in 1945 for saving the life of a customer who threatened suicide and retired on April 1, 1980, with only one day's absence in 50 years of service.

Survived by his wife of 72 years Geraldine, two children, four grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.