Charles DIEDLING

DIEDLING

Charles L. age 91 was born on March 6, 1924 to the late Charles and Helen Diedling. He passed away on March 11, 2015. He was preceded in death by his late sisters Evelyn and Marion and by his devoted and loving wife Frances. He is survived by his loving wife Susan, his sons Stephen (Belinda), Andrew (Frances), David (Pamela), Christopher (Bonita), James, Daniel (Tammy) Linus (Jorge) and his stepson David Schaeff (Jennifer). He is also survived by his grandchildren Michelle Nelson, Rebecca Kelso (Daniel), Stephen Jr. (Shaunna), Franz Diedling, Richard Galzerano, David Diedling (Loren) Marla Brunner(Joshua), Christopher Diedling, Randy Diedling, Tory Diedling, Chad Diedling, and Samantha Miller (Rick). He is also survived by 15 great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, and numerous friends. Charles was a man of honesty and integrity, blessed with a unique sense of humor and made friends everywhere he went, with him no one stayed a stranger for long. He proudly served his country during WWll as a flight engineer on B-24 bombers, flying combat missions over Germany and other European countries. On August 7th, 1944 his plane was shot down during a battle with enemy fighters. He was wounded, and captured by German forces. During the winter of 1945 he and other POW's were force marched across Germany. This march lasted 86 days and covered 600 miles, resulting in the deaths of many prisoners. After the war he met and married Frances Albrecht. They spent 38 years together raising 7 sons and enjoying many family adventures. During this time he was involved in various graphic arts companies and had a very successful career. After Frances passed away in 1986 he met and married Susan Schaeff in 1990, spending nearly 25 years together. Although Charles will be sorely missed his family takes comfort in knowing that he lived a long and happy life. We are grateful for the many memories he leaves for us to enjoy. The family would also like to thank Ms. Marcia Blair for the loving help and care she gave Charles and Susan over the last few years. In lieu of flowers Charles requested that donations be made to the American Red Cross, as he credits them with saving his life during his time as a POW during the war. Visitation will be held on Tuesday March 17th, 2015 at St. John the Baptist Dry Ridge Rd. from 9 AM until mass of Christian burial at 11:00 AM. Condolences at hodappfuneralhome.com

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