KINGSVILLE — Charles W. VanKirk Sr., age 90, formerly of Columbus Ave., passed away on Sunday, Jan. 13, 2013, at Ashtabula County Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.
He was born Nov. 8, 1922, in Duquesne, Pa., the son of Norman and Sarah (Houston) VanKirk and had been a lifelong area resident. A Veteran of the U.S. Army, he served in the 30th Division of the 531st Anti Aircraft Division during World War II. He spent winters in Dade City, Fla. for 18 years.
He worked as a locomotive operator for Union Carbide prior to his retirement in 1981. He enjoyed his involvement with the Pentecostal Church of God where he made many friends.
His survivors include three children, Charles W. (Christine) VanKirk Jr. of Ashtabula, Connie (Clair) VanKirk of Wichita, Kan. and Edward VanKirk of Trinity, N.C.; three grandchildren, Melanie Hanson, Heather Perkins and Brian VanKirk; six step-grandchildren, Larry Vaux, Hugh Harrison Jr., Dean Maron, Tamara Joiner, Nick True and Vance True; two great-grandchildren, Joshua Perkins and Chloe VanKirk; numerous step-great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews; and his good friend and caregiver, Esther “Ruby” Long of Kingsville.
He was preceded in death by his wife whom he married Dec. 27, 1943, Elsie B. (Schanfish) VanKirk in 2004; three brothers, Francis, Marion and William VanKirk; three sisters, Leona Cosner, Elberta Burt and Mildred Ford; and his parents.
Calling Hours will be held from 2 to 4 p.m., with a Service to follow at 4 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 17th, at DUCRO FUNERAL SERVICES AND CREMATORY, 4524 Elm Ave., Ashtabula. The Rev. Kenneth Roberts, Pastor of Pentecostal Church of God, will officiate. A private burial will be in Greenlawn Memory Gardens.
Obituary at www.ducro.com and starbeacon.com.
