Charles 'Chuck' Wayne Eldred, 84, Passes Away

Longtime Urbana resident and telephone cooperative employee is remembered for his family and faith

Mar. 23, 2026 at 4:48am

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Charles 'Chuck' Wayne Eldred, a longtime resident of Urbana, Iowa, passed away on March 20, 2026, at the age of 84. Eldred worked for Farmers Mutual Telephone Cooperative and USA Communications until his retirement in 2004. He is survived by his six children, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and two brothers.

Why it matters

Eldred's passing marks the loss of a community member who dedicated much of his life to serving the Urbana area through his work in the telecommunications industry. His strong family ties and Catholic faith were also central to his life.

The details

Eldred was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, in 1942 and graduated from Urbana High School in 1960. He served in the U.S. Army before marrying Charlotte Jean Zieser in 1964. Eldred worked at Farmers Mutual Telephone Cooperative and USA Communications until retiring in 2004. He was a lifelong member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Urbana.

  • Eldred passed away on March 20, 2026.
  • Funeral Mass will be held on March 28, 2026.

The players

Charles 'Chuck' Wayne Eldred

An 84-year-old resident of Urbana, Iowa, who worked in the telecommunications industry until his retirement in 2004.

Charlotte Jean Zieser

Eldred's wife, who passed away prior to him.

Asa Ray and Bernice (Wessel) Eldred

Eldred's parents.

Duane Eldred and Steven Eldred

Eldred's brothers.

St. Mary Catholic Church

The church in Urbana, Iowa, where Eldred was a lifelong member.

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The takeaway

Eldred's life was defined by his dedication to his family, his faith, and his work in the local telecommunications industry. His passing marks the end of an era for the Urbana community, where he was a well-known and respected figure.