Charles R. Hughes

Charles R. Hughes, 85, Topeka, passed away at his home on Wednesday, July 4, 2007. Born May 26, 1922 to Alexander and Corinne Hughes in Omaha, NE. Charles and his family moved to Topeka in 1926 and he remained a life-long resident. He was a 1940 graduate of Topeka High School where he met Ruth, his wife of 65 years. After graduation, Charles enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served during World War II from 1940 to 1946, primarily in the South Pacific. He then served in the reserves for a number of years. Serving his company for 40 years, Charles worked for Kansas Sheet Metal, rising from apprentice journeyman sheet metalist to vice-president followed by president. After merging with Stevensons Company in his later years, Charles retired in 1986. Charles believed in a strong work ethic and integrity in everyday life, and he demonstrated those values by the way he lived. During retirement he found great enjoyment in his family, his 1970 Fiat and his beloved dogs. He is survived by his loving family: his wife Ruth of 65 years; daughter Diane Higgins and husband, Mel, of Blue Springs, MO; sons, Dr. Steven Hughes and wife Darla, of Wichita; and Daniel Hughes and wife Vicki, of Topeka. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren: Suzanne (Todd) Stottlemyre and Wendy Higgins of Blue Springs, MO; Dr. Natalie Hammel (Alex) of Olathe; Dr. Brian Hughes and Lori Hughes, Blue Springs, MO; Stephanie Hughes and Christy Stewart (Joe) of St. Augustine, FL; Heather Keithley of Bloomington, IL; and John and Jenna Deems of Topeka. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Dr. Randall Murphy (Patricia) of Sandwich, MA, and 7 great-grandchildren: Kylie and Connor Stottlemyre, Savannah Higgins-Wyatt, Ethan Hammel, Samantha Hughes, Matthew Gilkes and Riley Stewart. Charles was preceded in death by his mother, father and brother, Leroy Hughes. Graveside memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July11, 2007 at Penwell-Gabel Cemetery, 6th & Gage. Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel is in charge of arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to Midland Hospice Care, 200 SW Frazier Circle, Topeka, Kansas 66606. To leave a special message for the family online, visit www.PenwellGabel.com Charles R. Hughes