Willson, Charles

Charles Willson, 80, of Cedar Rapids, passed away June 20, 2013, with his family by his side. Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Tuesday, June 25, 2013, at Cedar Memorial Park Chapel of Memories in Cedar Rapids with the Reverend Carol Kress presiding. There will be a reception following the service for family and friends.

Charles was born Jan. 8, 1933, in Decorah to Frank and Grace (Malli) Willson. He graduated from Decorah High School where he excelled in track and football. Charles served his country in Korea. He married Darlene Wicks in 1956 at Immaculate Conception in Cedar Rapids. Charles was a diesel mechanic and could fix most anything. He then went to work building homes for Skogman and then built Primus Homes.

Charles is survived by his wife of 57 years, Darlene; son, Eugene (Brenda); daughter, Beverly (Pete) Verteiko; sister, Peggy Graves of Decorah; brother, James (Marlyn); nine grandkids; 10 great-grandkids; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Loretta Owens; daughter, Valerie French; and daughter, Margie Willson Ette.

Charles was an avid fisherman and hunter. He was a longtime member of the Eagles Aerie # 2272, the Marion American Legion Post 298, and St. Matthew Church. He was the best dad any child could have.

The family would like to express their thanks for the exceptional care of Mercy Hospice and the loving attention from Manor Care and their staff.

Published June 23, 2013, in The Gazette