SOUTH BEND - Charles (Chuck) Eric Luoto, 55, of South Bend Indiana, died Monday March16, 2009, following a brief illness. 

Born July 7, 1953, he enjoyed gardening, fishing, hunting, photography, wood working, and doing home improvements.  Chuck was employed 12 years at Van Horne’s Jewelry, where he worked as a goldsmith, designer, gemologist, and other capacities.  He served 14 years in the U.S.M.C. as a photojournalist and in public relations, receiving an honorable discharge in 1993. 

Chuck was born and raised in northern California.  He is survived by a sister, Karen Luoto Alexander and her husband of 32 years, Julian of Red Bluff, California; brother Craig Aaron Luoto of Elkton Oregon; nephew Justin Gabriel Alexander and niece Megan Jane Alexander, both currently of Hope Mills, North Carolina;  preceded in death by parents Carl Gabriel Luoto and Betty Sue Thomas Luoto of Santa Rosa, California. Chuck also leaves behind numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins, co-workers, and friends, all of whom will miss him. 

No formal services are scheduled at this time.  Donations may be made to The Center for Hospice and Palliative Care, 111 Sunnybrook Ct.  South Bend, IN 46637.  Zahoran Funeral Home, 1826 S. Kemble Avenue is handling arrangements.