Charles Dameron

Charles Franklin Dameron died on March 13, 2011. He was born in Sherwood, Texas in 1919 and grew up in McCamey, an oil field boom town in West Texas. His father, William Franklin Dameron, came to Texas from Virginia and married Annie Mills Dameron, daughter of Texas pioneers. He was preceded in death by his twin brother Carroll and his sister Merle. After graduating from North Texas State Teachers College with a journalism degree, he joined the U.S. Navy in 1943. He served in World War II and the Korean War, and retired from the Naval Reserve as a Commander after 26 years of service. In 1946 he began his newspaper career with the Dallas Times Herald, where he served as a reporter, city editor, news editor, and retired as associate managing editor in 1983. He was active in a number of civic organizations, serving as president of the Press Club of Dallas, general chairman of the annual Gridiron Show, co-founder of the North Dallas Baseball League, member of the board of directors of the Dallas Community of Churches, and deacon and elder of Westminster Presbyterian Church. He is survived by Madelyn (Madge) Burgesser, whom he married in 1944, as well as his children and their spouses: Charles (Chip) and Joan Dameron of Brownsville, Mark and Ginny Dameron of San Antonio, and Elizabeth (Betsy) Joseph of Dallas. Grandchildren include Nicholas Rose, Adam Rose, Michael Dameron, and Charlie Dameron. Among his many passions were his fine woodworking projects, family trips, regular doubles tennis matches, and love of books. He was a remarkable man who gave selflessly to his country and community, with grace and good humor, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him. The family is grateful for the loving care and attention provided by the wonderful staff at Sunrise at Hillcrest Assisted Living and VITAS Hospice Care. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to the charity of your choice. An open visitation will be held at the Sparkman/Hillcrest Funeral Home on Wednesday, March 16, from 9:00 to 7:00. A memorial service will be held there on Thursday, March 17, at 2:00 p.m.