PLAINFIELD, Ill. (WLS) — Despite being legally blind, Chef Charlie Doman possessed a vision that extended far beyond his own life, aiming to inspire others facing similar challenges.
In his final years, Doman dedicated himself to his role at Moe Joe’s in Plainfield, proving that disabilities do not hinder the pursuit of one’s ambitions and passions.
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On Sunday, a lively parade filled with music and fluttering handkerchiefs took to the streets of Plainfield, celebrating the life of a man who lived with exuberance and purpose.
At just 51, Doman tragically passed away last week, leaving a profound impact on those who knew him.
Honoring his legacy, a New Orleans-style second line parade made its way through town, paying homage to the beloved chef and manager of Moe Joe’s Cajun-Caribbean eatery.
“I wish he could see this,” expressed his mother, Anna Doman. “He would have relished every moment, just as I have. It’s heartwarming to witness the outpouring of love from his many friends and admirers.”
ABC7 first met Chef Charlie in 2022. The legally blind chef’s special electronic glasses that enhanced the little sight he had left were stolen.
The restaurant’s owner offered to buy him a new pair, but instead he wanted to host a “Pies for Eyes” fundraiser, not just to replace his pair, but to help others.
“His favorite thing was the charity he opened, ‘Pies for Eyes,’ for the seeing-impaired children and buying them vision systems,” Anna Doman said.
“We raised so much money that first year that we were able to buy not just him another set, but three other children,” Moe Joe’s owner Jamie Littell said.
Charlie’s family and friends are remembering him for his endearing stubbornness and strength, especially after relearning how to cook and manage kitchen after losing most of his sight.
“Charlie was never blind. Charlie was just a cook you couldn’t see,” friend Ryan Gramite said. “This is what he did, make food and food makes people happy. And he knew it, always knew it.”
“We’re going to miss Chef Charlie so much. He inspired everybody,” Littell said. “It’s really easy to have good character when things are easy. But every single time that things got hard, he shined and just persevered.”
Since that first fundraiser years ago, Charlie has raised tens of thousands of dollars to help blind teenagers. His community is now vowing to make sure his legacy continues on.
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