Charles "Chuck" McGough

Charles “Chuck” McGough, age 67, of Hanover, devoted husband, father, grandfather-to-be, entrepreneur, engineer, and lifelong problem solver, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family on Wednesday, May 13, 2026. Born August 6, 1958, Chuck was predeceased by his beloved parents, Charles A. and Bernadette (Hieronimus) McGough.

Chuck was an engineer at heart and a problem solver by nature. For more than four decades, he dedicated his life to helping others build, improve, and succeed. As President of CAM Innovation, he didn’t just lead a company—he helped shape an industry. His work took him to more than 50 countries around the world, where he partnered with clients face-to-face, walking factory floors, understanding their challenges, and designing solutions that made their businesses stronger.

He had a deep intellectual curiosity and a genuine love of learning. Chuck was always looking to improve—whether in business, in leadership, or in life. He had a particular passion for history and reading, and he approached the world with a thoughtful, analytical mindset that guided both his professional success and personal growth.

Chuck had a rare ability to see both the big picture and the smallest detail. Whether optimizing an existing machine, designing new equipment, or helping build entire manufacturing facilities from the ground up, he took immense pride in seeing an idea come to life—especially in the moment when the first finished product rolled off the line.

Under his leadership, CAM Innovation became a globally respected company, known for its innovation, adaptability, and commitment to customers. The company’s success was recognized with numerous honors, including the Governor’s ImPAct Award for export excellence and being named Entrepreneur of the Year by the Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Chuck was deeply committed to his community. He served on numerous boards, including the Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce, the American Red Cross (where he served as Chairman), Delone Catholic High School and the U.S. Department of Commerce District Export Council. He believed in giving back and strengthening the community that supported him.

He shared a 32-year marriage with his beloved wife, Michelle, whom he considered his soulmate. Together they built a life filled with love, resilience, and shared purpose. He was a proud father and fiercely protective of those he loved.

To his children, he was a constant teacher and motivator, often reminding them that it only took “15 minutes extra” to do something better—to go a little further, try a little harder, and take pride in their efforts. It was a simple phrase, but one that reflected how he lived his life every day.

Chuck was overjoyed to be welcoming his first grandchild, due in October 2026—a new chapter he looked forward to with great excitement and pride.

Chuck was passionate, driven, and strong-willed. He held high standards and expected the best—from himself and from others—but behind that was a deep sense of responsibility, loyalty, and care. He believed deeply in showing up, in doing the work, and in stepping into life fully—often drawing inspiration from Theodore Roosevelt’s words about “The Man in The Arena.”

He will be remembered not only for what he built, but for how he showed up—for his family, for his colleagues, and for the many people around the world whose lives and businesses he helped shape.

Chuck is survived by his loving wife, Michelle; his daughter, Carolyn McMillan, and her husband, Cain McMillan; his son, Robert McGough, and partner, Melissa Johns; his brother, David McGough, and his wife, Kate Whybrow; his nephews, Chase McGough, Brandon Wivagg, Gavin McGough, and Connor Wivagg; and his niece, Willa McGough.

His legacy lives on in the family he loved, the company he built, and the lasting impact he made across the globe.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:00 PM on Wednesday, May 20, 2026 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Hanover. The family will receive friends at a viewing from 10 to 11:30 AM Wednesday at the church. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, and in honor of Chuck’s generous spirit, the family asks that you carry forward a simple act of kindness in his memory. Those wishing to make memorial contributions may do so to Delone Catholic High School, 140 South Oxford Avenue, McSherrystown, PA 17344; St. Joseph Catholic Church, 5125 Grandview Road, Hanover, PA 17331; or VNA of Hanover & Spring Grove, 440 Madison Street, Hanover, PA 17331.