Charles Lee Young was born August 12, 1928 in Clear Creek, Mo., and went to heaven July 10, 2010. He graduated from Willard High in 1946, University of Maryland in 1969. He joined the Navy in 1948, serving nine years. He married Becky Pennel in 1955 and they enjoyed 54 years together. The generous spirit which characterized his life prompted a transfer between Armed Forces branches, thinking "there are fewer remote Air Force bases than there are ships in the fleet" and he could spend more time as a devoted family-man. Fifteen years of Air Force service followed. He was the proud father of two children, Chuck (Deana Blanchard) and Karen (Lyndall Dodson). After retirement, Charles spent his days in the tool shed, fondly known as the "Play House," crafting numerous wood-working projects. Of special enjoyment were innumerable children's toys that flooded from the shed to all over the world. He spent 20 years volunteering for the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP). Of special importance were his friends, family, and services through First Baptist Church, Springfield, Mo., where he was a beloved, long-time member. Charles is survived by Becky, Chuck, Karen; two grandchildren, Chris and Stephen Dodson; three step-grandchildren, Michael, Susan, and John; four step great-grandchildren, Max, Calvin, Lucas, and Shane; sister, Virginia Cook; brother, John; numerous nieces and nephews, and the entire Pennel clan who considered him an integral member. Visitation will be Tuesday, July 13 from 4 to 6 p.m. in Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home in Springfield, Mo. The funeral will be Wednesday, July 14 at 9:30 a.m. in Gorman-Scharpf with burial to follow in Missouri Veteran's Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Crosslines of Springfield, 1710 E. Chestnut, Springfield, MO 65802.