Charles R. Miner Sr.

EPSOM -- Charles R. Miner Sr., 78, died March 22, 2008, at Concord Hospital after a courageous battle with Parkinson's disease.

Born in Littleton on March 8, 1930, he was the oldest son of Charles E. and Bernice (Gauthier) Miner. Mr. Miner was a resident of Epsom for more than 70 years.

He attended Pembroke Academy and enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving from 1951-1953 during the Korean War. As a corporal he was awarded the Combat Infantryman's Badge, Korean War Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, and numerous commendations. He was also awarded the Purple Heart Medal for wounds received in combat.

Mr. Miner helped establish the Elwood O. Wells American Legion Post 112, of which he was a member for 55 years. He was the post's first commander and later served as vice commander for the 5th District of The American Legion in New Hampshire.

For 45 years, Mr. Miner was employed by Merrimack Farmers Exchange and Blue Seal Feeds, retiring in 1993 as quality control and safety manager.

He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who enjoyed time with his precious granddaughters. He was a member of the Disabled American Veterans and the Military Order of the Purple Heart.

He was an avid sportsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was a volunteer hunter safety and trapper education instructor for the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department.

IN HIS LIFE: The family includes his wife of almost 53 years, Margaret (Picard) Miner of Epsom; two children, Charles R. Miner Jr. of Epsom and Douglas C. Miner and his wife, Jennifer, of Chichester; two granddaughters, Sarah and Allison Miner; a brother, Robert E. Miner of Epsom; and a nephew and several nieces. He was predeceased by his second brother, David B. Miner in March of 2007.

SERVICES: Calling hours are from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the Still Oaks Funeral & Memorial Home, 1217 Suncook Valley Highway, Epsom. Members of The American Legion post will hold a ceremony at 7 p.m.

Services are at 10:30 a.m. Thursday in the Still Oaks Chapel with the Rev. Henry Frost officiating. Spring burial will be in McClary Cemetery in Epsom.

Memorial donations may be made to either the Epsom Fire Rescue Association, 1714 Dover Road, Epsom 03234; or to CRVNA, P.O. Box 1797, Concord 03302-1797.

While the Still Oaks Web site is under construction, friends may sign an on-line guestbook by visiting petitfuneralhome.com.