"Chuck" Joseph Wilson

Chuck Wilson, 84, of Albert Lea, passed away Thursday, October 22, 2026, at his home surrounded by family. A Celebration of Life, including military honors, will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at Bonnerup Funeral Home. A visitation will be held at 1:00 p.m. prior to the service.

Chuck was born in Tipton, CA, on May 18, 1942, to Joseph and Laura (Varney) Wilson. Chuck eventually moved to Minnesota, joined the United States Army, and served faithfully for two years, from 1965 to 1967. He met his soulmate, Valerie, during that time. Chuck and Valerie were married on February 27, 1965, and lived happily together for over 61 years. Their love story, including their wedding, will always be one of the most cherished memories.

Chuck sold magazines in the early years of his life with Valerie before becoming a long-haul truck driver. His years driving the “big rig” took him to many states across the country. Chuck thoroughly enjoyed driving trucks and earned numerous safety awards over the years.

When he wasn’t driving a truck, Chuck enjoyed working on his lawn. He had a sharp eye for any weed that tried to grow in his lawn, and those weeds never lasted long. Chuck also took pride in caring for and maintaining any car he owned. In recent weeks, Chuck became an expert at making breakfast smoothies, and he took great joy in preparing one for himself and Valerie each morning.

He would do anything for his family and was always willing to share his wisdom on solving problems. Chuck was known as the “cupcake man” at the Albert Lea Cancer Center as he made sure the staff never ran out. He loved the Lord Jesus Christ, and as a family, we can only imagine the joy and embrace he received when he entered into the presence of His Savior.

Chuck is survived by his wife, Valerie; daughter Jan Brenke; daughter Susan (Tim) Vandenheuvel; grandson Daryl Brenke; granddaughters Erica Robertson and Rachel Robertson; Samantha (Karsten) Olson; and three great-grandchildren, Aralyn, Julia, and Eden Olson.

Chuck was preceded in death by his parents.

Chuck’s family will forever be grateful to the nursing and scheduling team at the Albert Lea Cancer Center, the entire staff of Mayo Clinic Hospice, good friend Markie, his trusted prayer warrior friends at the Village Coop, and new friend Siliva, who all added value to Chuck’s life. 

The live stream link below is a complimentary service provided by Bonnerup Funeral & Cremation Services.

Unforeseen technical, internet, facility, and/or acoustical circumstances may produce a diminished end product.

Please note, if the live stream does not appear, we are attempting to record and publish the service for later viewing.