Former State Representative Chuck Hartke dies at age 80

(WAND) - Former State Representative (D) Chuck Hartke has died.

He was 80 years old. He passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 13.

Hartke was a Vietnam War veteran, serving as a field medic and overseeing triage operations. When he returned from Vietnam, he became a fulltime farmer in Effingham County.

In January 1985, Charles was appointed to the Illinois House of Representatives, where he served for nine terms until May 2003.

In 1997, he was named Assistant Majority Leader. He held the position through the remainder of his time in the House.

After leaving office, he served as the State Director of Agriculture.

Funeral services will be held at 12 p.m. on Tuesday, April 22, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Teutopolis with burial and military service immediately following in the church cemetery.

Visitation will be held at the church prior to the service from 9:30 to 11:45 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Crisis Nursery of Effingham County.