Charles L. Shonkwiler

Charles L. Shonkwiler, 93, of Ruggles, passed away peacefully Saturday, October 11, 2014 at his home. He was born at the family home on Honey Creek Road near Hayesville on December 22, 1920 and was a lifelong resident of Ashland County.

A U.S. Navy veteran, he served during WWII aboard the USS Colbert APA-145. The ship was torpedoed in the battle of Okinawa. Charles was a member of the American Legion Post 88 in Ashland. He worked for Faultless Rubber Company (later called Abbott, then Hopira) for nearly 40 years as a pressman and utility maintenance man.

He always took great pride in caring for his family and garden. Later in life he enjoyed traveling and visiting his children and family. He was a member of the Ruggles Church and had served as a trustee.

Charles is survived by his children, Gary (Luella) Shonkwiler of Oneonta, Alabama, Charlotte (Rick) Normant of Mansfield, Roy (Rebecca) Shonkwiler of Fitchville, Joyce (Roger) Shopbell of Ashland, Ed (Shirley) Shonkwiler of Delaware and Kathy (Don) Clark of China Spring, Texas; 17 grandchildren; 31 great grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, William Shonkwiler of Carey; sister, Phyllis Miller of Mansfield; numerous nieces and nephews and his exceptional caregiver, Manda Nebergall.

Charles was preceded in death by his wife, Matilda A. Shonkwiler; great grandchild, Markie Shonkwiler; parents, Frank and Olive Shonkwiler; brothers, Earl and Marvin and sisters, Helen and Josephine.

The family will greet friends at Eastman Funeral Home, 200 West Main Street, New London, Tuesday, October 14 from 5-8 p.m. and Wednesday from 1 p.m. until the 2 p.m. service with Pastor Martin Daly officiating. Burial will follow in Ashland County Memorial Park with military honor preformed by Ashland Veterans Honor Guard. Memorial contributions in Charles' memory to the Ruggles Church, 1364 State Route 224, New London, Ohio 44851.

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