Charles E. Witherite, 75 of Centre Hall, died Wednesday, November 10, 2010, at his home.
He was born March 8, 1935, in Altoona, a son of the late Carrie C. Myers and was raised by his grandparents Jesse and Rachel Witherite.
He attended Bellefonte schools earning his G.E.D. while serving in the military,
During the Korean War, Mr. Witherite served with the U. S. Marines from July 7, 1953 to July 7, 1956 earning the rank of Sergeant.
Following his discharge from the service, Mr. Witherite farmed for Meyers Brothers and worked as a heavy equipment operator. He later worked at Murata Erie as a kiln operator and at State Amusement as an electronics specialist, then worked at Centre Engineering as a kiln operator.
Charles was a life member of V. F. W. Post 9575 at Potters Mills; a life member of American Legion Post 444 at Millheim; a life member of the Marine Corps League; and a life member of the Scotland School and the Handyman's Club. Mr. Witherite was baptized at the Runville Evangelical United Brethren Church, now known as the Runville United Methodist Church.
He especially enjoyed hunting, fishing, and woodworking.
Surviving Mr. Witherite are four children; Carole Benedict and her husband Frank of Ft. Lauderdale FL, Barbara Irwin and her husband Philip of Centre Hall, Charles E. Witherite Jr. and his wife Christine of Milesburg, and C. Christine Butts of Centre Hall; five sisters, Lula Hoy of Axemann, Faye Spicer and Lois Burd both of Bellefonte, Janet Fetzer of Howard and Linda Zang of Texas; two brothers, Doyle Myers of Maryland and Harold Myers of Bellefonte; and six grandchildren, Derek and Justin Houtz; Heather and Matthew Benedict; and Kevin and Keith Butts.
Preceding him in death were the following family members, Marjorie Orr, Hannah Mayes, Bessie Shawver, Betty Woomer; Gus, Merrill, Lester, and Jay Witherite.
Friends will be received from 9 to 11 a. m. Saturday, November 13, 2010, at Mark D. Heintzelman Funeral and Cremation Service, 226 S. Pennsylvania Ave. Centre Hall. A memorial service will follow immediately at 11:00 a. m. with the Reverend James Richard Yates officiating. Burial with Military honors will be in Myer Cemetery, Buffalo Run Road, Bellefonte.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to a church or charity of the donor's choice.
An on line guest book can be signed or condolences sent to the family at www.heintzelmanfuneralhome.com