Charles Ryan

Charles F. Ryan, 86, of Whitewater, formerly of State College, Pennsylvania, died Saturday, Dec. 16, 2023, at Southeast Hospital in Cape Girardeau.

He was born Nov. 14, 1937, in Danville, Pennsylvania, to Addison and Madelyn Ryan. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Grace White, of Huntingdon, Pennsylvania.

Charles attended Danville High School, Valley Forge Military Academy and Penn State University. His professional career included working for HRB Singer, a defense contractor, in State College and for Penn State University, performing research in ergonomics for the U.S. Department of Mines.

He served in the U.S. Army under the Eisenhower Program. He was active in the Antique Automobile Club of America and volunteered with the Boy Scouts in Pennsylvania.

Charles began playing the trumpet in the fourth grade. As such, he was the youngest person to ever play with the Danville High School Band. Throughout his life, he played the trumpet with various groups, such as the Screamers, State College dance band, State College municipal band, Windjammers and Jackson Municipal Band.

He should be remembered as a humble and generous man who wanted little and gave much. His life was rooted in his faith, family, beloved pets and doing the correct thing.

He leaves behind his wife of 40 years, Patricia, and two treasured sons, Charles and Perrin (Hayley). In addition, he leaves behind his dear whippet, Eli.

Funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024, at Zion Methodist Church of Gordonville, and he will be interred in the church cemetery. The Rev. Scott Griffin will preside. Graveside military rites will be provided by Missouri Honors Team. In recognition of his profound love for the state of Pennsylvania, soil from State College (Happy Valley) will be scattered on the premises.

Rest in peace, dear Charles.

Memorial contributions may be given to Zion Methodist Church.

Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.