October 2, 1955 – August 18, 2021
Charles Thomas “Chuck” Combs, 65, Carmel, passed from his earthly body into the presence of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on August 18, 2021. After a short but fierce battle with cancer, it was a beautiful finish to a race well and courageously run.
Chuck was born on October 2, 1955, to Jeff and Sally (Hicks) Combs in Chicago, Ill. He was a graduate of Carmel High School, Purdue University, Northwestern University, and Indiana University. He was a noted physical therapist and athletic trainer who began his career with Indianapolis Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine, serving as a director, and later owned and operated Carmel Rehab, which grew to four clinics.
A former Indiana Pacers ball boy and die-hard Boilermaker who was mentored at Purdue by athletic training legends Pinky Newell and Denny Miller, Chuck dedicated himself to teaching and sharing his love of physical therapy with thousands of students and athletes, including many Indianapolis Colts players. He was a frequent presenter at trade conferences and was a lecturer at both Indiana University and Purdue University.
Chuck was a member of College Park Church, where he served as a small group leader for Student Ministries, and participated in Deeper, a Men’s Bible Study group.
Chuck demonstrated his faith unashamedly to everyone in his life. Being the founder and owner of Carmel Rehab allowed him the opportunity to not only address patients’ physical limitations but to simply say, “There is a spiritual element to physical healing. May I pray for you?”
With God’s guidance, Carmel Rehab became a special place of community where people had the chance to be seen, known, loved and cared for. In today’s climate where so many struggle with isolation and hopelessness, time spent at Carmel Rehab was beautifully healing. Even as patients underwent treatment and exercise, the atmosphere buzzed with pleasant, animated conversation led by Chuck, his student aides and staff.
Chuck’s professional accomplishments were eclipsed only by his deep, constant love for his wife and commitment to his family. They enjoyed prayer and devotional times, movies, special events, bike riding, eating out, and trips together – especially to Kings Island. He counted each of his children and grandchildren a blessing and prayed for them daily.
Chuck loved Jesus with a fervent passion and above all else would want to be remembered for living a life that glorified God. His was a life of love, grace, humility, and service to others. Chuck’s life embodied the gospel: God is holy, I am not, Jesus saves, Christ is my life.
He is survived by his wife of 19 years, Julie Combs; children, Chris (Kristen) Combs, Kara Combs, Brittany (John Paul) Clayton, Dakota Allen, and Brady Combs; grandchildren, Sadie and Jackson Combs; mother, Sally Combs; six siblings; father and mother-in-law; sister-in-law; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his father; and brother, Danny Combs.
Chuck touched countless lives. If you have a memory to share with his family, picture, etc., please email your story to chuckcombsstories@gmail.com.
Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, August 25, 2021 and 11 a.m. to noon on Thursday, August 26, 2021 at College Park Church, 2606 W. 96th St., Indianapolis. Services will be held at noon on Thursday, August 26, 2021, at the church, with Pastor David Michael officiating. Burial will be at Carmel Cemetery in Carmel.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to College Park Church that will help in the discipleship of students for retreats, events, and programs.
Condolences: randallroberts.com
Chuck was an incredible person and healer. He helped me through many years of orthopedic challenges. He prayed for me and whatever hardship was in my life. He was a great man and loved his family so much. He will be greatly missed.