Charles Hemmelgarn

Charles Kenneth Hemmelgarn was born on January 2, 1942, in Mercer County, Ohio, to Albert and Alvina (Stucke) Hemmelgarn. He passed away on May 27, 2024, in Dayton, Ohio, after a short illness.

Charles dedicated his career to aviation as an Air Traffic Control Specialist, working in the weather bureau of various airports before retiring after 32 years of service. His passion for flying led him to earn his commercial pilot's license in the early 1960s. He used this skill to assist in search-and-rescue missions for downed aircraft with the Civil Air Patrol for many years and even built his own ultralight aircraft.

Beyond aviation, Charles had a deep love for music and was skilled in playing classical piano, accordion, and trombone. He also enjoyed bike riding, motorcycle riding, archery, and was an avid reader. A dedicated volunteer at the YMCA, he found joy in exercising and giving back to his community.

Charles was preceded in death by his son, Charles Jr.; his parents, Albert and Alvina; and his brother, Nicholas. He is survived by his wife, Karen; daughters, Debra Sherrill and Aimee (Scott) Link; grandchildren, Jessicca Lucas and Jacob Jaros; stepson, Paul (Christina) Eppleston; sister, Sue Hull; brother, Lowell (Tina) Hemmelgarn; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Charles will be remembered for his adventurous spirit and dedication to both his profession and passions. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.