Dr. Charles L. Myers, 87, passed into the loving arms of his Savior Jesus on Thursday September 12, 2013. Born April 15, 1926, on a farm near Pennsylvania Furnace, he was the fourth child of the late Charles H. and Alice Homan Myers. He married Miriam P. Myers, the love of his life, on September 1, 1951.
Charles grew up during the Depression, which taught him the value of hard work and an appreciation for the simple things in life. When Charles was still in High School, at 17 years of age, he was elected to serve as the Master of the Baileyville Grange. He was the youngest person ever to serve in this position. He graduated from State College High School on "D Day" June 6, 1944. A year later, Charles enlisted in the U.S. Navy and proudly served his Country from 1945 to 1946.
He received a bachelor's degree from Penn State University prior to a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Cornell University in 1952. He was the only out-of- state student accepted into the Veterinary Medicine program in his class. While at Cornell he was a member of Omega Tau Sigma fraternity and it was there he met Miriam.
Beginning in 1953, and for more than 35 years, Dr. Myers faithfully served his clients in his veterinary practice of both large and small animals. The relationships he built with both the clients and their animals were a great pleasure in his life. During his practice, he was instrumental in establishing Rabies Clinics in Centre County, PA was the Veterinarian for the weekly animal auction held at the Sales Barn at Old Fort, and he was invited by the York County Fair to do an exhibition on de-horning cows. He also tested cattle herds for Brucellosis throughout Pennsylvania.
Throughout that time he and his wife raised their five children and taught them important lessons that contributed to their success in life. He was very proud of all his children and grandchildren. He loved his family and friends and his relationships were his greatest joy.
He and his wife were longtime members of Trinity United Church of Christ. His faith and church family were a strong presence in his life. An avid Penn State football fan, he and Miriam attended both home and away games for over 50 years. He shared his passion for Penn State with his children and friends. He also was a long-term Phillies fan and their World Series victories were a highlight for him and Miriam.
He was a Ham Radio Operator and was one of the first in the area to use a 2-way radio in his business to stay connected while serving his farm clients throughout central Pennsylvania. While carrying out business responsibilities and raising his family, Dr. Myers also managed to devote time and effort to community affairs. His record of public service included serving twice as President of the Centre Hall Lions Club and a more than 65-year membership in the Baileyville Grange. Charles was a charter member of the Centre Hall Library, participated in community chicken barbeques, strung and lighted the holiday lights in the diamond in Centre Hall with his children, and was a chaperone for elementary school children going to the Shriner's Circus.
Charles and Miriam shared a love for traveling and were blessed to travel to almost all the states in the United States as well as many foreign countries.
Throughout the past two years he fought a valiant medical battle with grace, faith, and a grateful heart. He appreciated the wonderful medical personnel who used their skill and kindness in his care - many of whom commented that he touched their lives with his warm smile and good nature. He was grateful for the many people who have prayed and shown kindness to him and his family throughout.
In addition to his loving wife Miriam, Charles is survived by two daughters, Wendy Myers, and her husband Luckey Dunn, and Cheryl M Johnson and her husband Ron; and three sons, Larry Myers and his wife Terry, Terry Myers and his wife Laura, and C. Lee Myers; eight grandchildren, Adam Dunn, Charles Dunn and his wife Samantha, Clinton Dunn, Kristin Myers, Jeff Myers, Nicole Myers, Julie Myers and Jesse Myers. He is also survived by two sisters, Mary H. Smith and Gladys Durand and her husband, Nelson. Also surviving are many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Paul Myers, and his wife, Miriam; Claude H. Myers and his wife Jane and a brother-in-law, Paul Smith.
Visitation will be from 12 to 3 p.m. Friday October 4, 2013 followed by a celebration of his life from 4pm to 6pm at the State College Alliance Church, 1221 W. Whitehall Rd State College, PA 16801, with the Reverend Alan Kohr officiating. There will be a time of fellowship and food in between. Military honors will be presented in the church parking lot at or near 6:10 p. m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Trinity United Church of Christ,104 North Pennsylvania Avenue, PO Box 212, Centre Hall, PA 16828 or Wynwood House, 122 Wynwood Drive, Centre Hall, PA 16828.
An on line guest book can be signed or condolences can sent to the family at www.heintzelmanfuneralhome.com