Charles A. Kiorpes

Kiorpes, Charles A.

Charles A. Kiorpes, 89, died Friday, March 22nd in Stuart, FL. He had resided at Harbour Ridge near Palm City, FL, since 1989. He was born and grew up in Yonkers, NY, where he graduated from Saunders Trade School. He subsequently earned a B.S. Degree in Engineering at Columbia University. He spent many years with the Ford Motor Company in assignments of increasing responsibility. From 1967 to 1972, he was Manager of the Ford Mahwah Assembly Plant in northern New Jersey, where he lived in Franklin Lakes and was a member of the Ridgewood Country Club. Later, he held top executive positions at White Motor and Clark Equipment. He retired in 1986 as Chief Operating Officer of Clark Michigan, a worldwide manufacturer of earthmoving machinery. During World War II, he served 3 years with the Army Air Force, finishing his tour of duty as a 1st Lt. B-29 Navigator after 21 combat missions over Japan with the 3rd Photo Reconnaissance Squadron based on Guam. He was a life-long golfer, having learned the game as a caddie at the Quaker Ridge CC in Mamaroneck, NY, and played with a number of pros over the years, including Arnold Palmer and Tom Watson.

Charles is survived by his wife of 68 years, Ferne Wilkins Kiorpes; sons, Anthony and Timothy; daughter, Lynne; sister, Elizabeth; brothers, Steven and George; and six grandchildren.

His remains will be buried in Rutland, VT. Donations in his memory can be made to the American Red Cross.