CHARLES GRIGGS

Charlie passed away peacefully with his family at his bed side on December 16, 2010, at the age of 86. Charlie was born August 5, 1924, in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee, the 2nd child and only son amongst three sisters to Steve and Ada Griggs. He spent his early years growing up on his family's farms in both Tennessee and Alabama before moving to California with his family in 1939. He settled in Madera where he lived for the rest of his life. Charlie comes from a long line of Griggs's, tracing his family lineage back to two brothers Edwin and Phillip Griggs, who arrived at Jamestown from Scotland, as shipbuilders in the late 1700's. Dad took great pride in sharing his family tree, with us and others: Griggs Aplenty "The Descendants of Hugh Griggs" published by his cousin Julius in 2006. At the age of 18 Charlie enlisted in the United States Army and was sent to England to prepare for the invasion of Europe by the Allies. On his way across the United States he stopped for a few days in Evansville, Indiana and it was there he met his future wife to be, Carrie Claspell. After only two days in a letter written home to his mother, he said "I met the girl I'm going to marry." After the war Carrie and Charlie married, settled in Madera, and began to raise their three children. Charlie was one of the many thousands of brave young soldiers who stormed Omaha Beach, in Normandy on D-Day. Wounded in France, Charlie was sent back to England to recuperate from his injuries and then transfer to an Army hospital back in the states. Even without the use of his left arm and hand Charlie had a long career as a truck driver and then as the plant engineer for Nobles Meat Packing Co. in Madera for more than 35 years. He was active in his church, Saint Joachim's, a member of the Knights of Columbus and an active volunteer for all things connected to his children's school Saint Joachim's Elementary. He was also an active member of the Madera VFW and the Disabled American Veterans'. Charlie loved to hunt and fish and to spend time at the family cabin in Central Camp. Also the occasional trip to Reno and Las Vegas would put a big smile on his face. He is preceded in death by his beautiful wife, Carrie; his sister, Maelean Weaver and his young daughter Catherine (Cathy) Griggs. Charlie is survived by his two sisters, Nadine DeStefanis of Madera and Opal Kasparian of Galt, Ca. His two sons, Charles D. Griggs and Randy S. Griggs of Fresno, three grandsons Matthew, Daniel and Thomas Griggs of Fresno and his two daughter-in-laws Nancy and Michelle Griggs of Fresno, and his many nieces and nephews across California. On behalf of Charlie, his sons and their families we would like to express our sincere appreciation to the staff at Country Villa Madera, for taking such loving care of Dad in his final months. A Family Funeral Service will be held at Jay Chapel, on Tuesday, December 21, 2010. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Disabled American Veterans of Central California, 701 Van Ness Ave., Fresno, Ca. 93721, or the donor's favorite charity. JAY CHAPEL 1121 Roberts Avenue Madera , Ca. (559)674-8814 www.jaychapel.com