Charles "Chuck" McCloskey Jr.

(USAF-Retired) of Hingham, formerly of Canton and Venice, FL, passed away December 5, 2007, at the age of 84. Devoted husband to the late Doria (Lanza) McCloskey. Revered father to Craig M. McCloskey of Stoughton, Carla A. Barlow of Hingham, and Lisa M. McCloskey of Wrentham. Beloved grandfather of Brad P. McCloskey, Lisa M. Barlow, Grace L. Barlow and Jack S. Barlow. One of seven siblings, he is survived by Imogene M. Bruenig of Punta Gorda, FL. Chuck devoted his life to serving his family, country and God. He grew up in Stow, Ohio, and entered the military on January 10, 1942. In 1944, he was commissioned through the Air Force Aviation Cadet Program and became a fighter pilot. A highly decorated Veteran, his military service included numerous combat missions in the European Theatre of Operation in World War II, flying bomber escort missions with a Mustang fighter squadron, earning the Distinguished Flying Cross Medal. He went on to fly combat missions in the Korean Conflict, while planning the missions in Vietnam, where his many achievements included the Bronze Star Medal at Tan Son Nhut. After faithfully serving his country for more than 30 years, Chuck, an avid golfer, pursued many interests in civilian life, including obtaining a Master's Degree, a real estate license, teaching, sales, and touring. Chuck is remembered as a dedicated and devoted husband, father and grandfather, and his Irish wit and charm will be missed by many, including his friends and neighbors at Linden Ponds in Hingham. Relatives and friends respectfully invited to attend the visitation at the Pyne Keohane Funeral Home, 21 Emerald St., HINGHAM, Tuesday, commencing at 9 AM. A Funeral Mass will follow at Saint Paul's Church, Hingham at 10 AM. Burial will be private at the National Veterans' Cemetery, Bourne. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of LTC Charles L. McCloskey, Jr. may be made to Massachusetts Veterans, Inc., 69 Grove St., Worcester, MA 01605, www.massveterans.org, a private, non-profit organization Chuck admired which is dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of veterans in need. Call 1-800-Keohane or see www.Keohane.com for directions and online condolences.