Charles Messner

MESSNER - Charles, 97, of Lakewood, formerly of Saddle River, died Thursday, April 24, 2003. Prior to retirement, he was a purchasing agent for IT&T, in Clifton and then in Frankfurt, Germany for six years. Before that he was in the music business in the 1920's with his four brothers. In the 1930's he and his brothers, Bill, John and Fred, played under the leadership of Brother Dick in a popular big band, Dick Messner's Orchestra. He graduated from Ridgefield Park High School at the top of his class, and was awarded a scholarship to Pace College, where he graduated with honors. He was a member and former President of the Ocean County Coin Club. He was proud to be an active member of Leisure Village Kiwanis. He was a faithful member of St. Thomas Lutheran Church, in Brick, and he and his wife lived in the Original Leisure Village during his retirement. Surviving are his wife of seventy-three years, Ida "Ede" Messner, a daughter, Maxine M. Allen, of Browns Mills, five grandchildren, Bradley Allen, Jeffrey Allen, Nancy Gin, Karen Rodri, and Kenny Allen and their spouses. Also, fifteen great-grandchildren and four stepgreat-grandchildren. He was a truly loving dad, devoted husband, proud grandfather, and thoughtful great-granddad. He will be missed but always live in our hearts.