Charles Carson

Charles "Chuck" Milford Carson, age 89, died Saturday, January 1, 2011 at MedCentral Hospital. He was born December 14, 1921, to William Fred and Viola Mae Walker Carson in Cadiz, Ohio, then moved with his family to New Philadelphia, Ohio in 1927. He attended New Philadelphia schools, graduating in 1939. Chuck attended Marietta College then was awarded a scholarship to the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music, where he majored in voice.

In 1943, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, married Margaret A. Ritter in 1944, and then went overseas during World War II to serve in the 739th field artillery in the European theater. Chuck was a Staff Sergeant, and then later received a battlefield commission to 2nd Lieutenant. Chuck's first job was a sports director and staff announcer at WMAN radio. He then moved to become Account Executive of radio advertising sales, where he remained for 25 years. In 1972, he was promoted to Vice President and General Manager of the station until his retirement in 1987.

Chuck loved the Lord and his church. He was very active in the First Christian Church of Mansfield, having served as a member of the choir and soloist for over 50 years. While there, he formed and directed a men's group called the "Him Singers". He served in many capacities: as a deacon, trustee, elder, worship and music committees, as well as chairman of the congregation.

Chuck's community service included president of Civitan and Rotary Clubs, participation in several barbershop quartets, Mansfield Choral Society and Community Theatre. He was a 50-year member of the Masons. Chuck served 17 years as a MedCentral Mansfield Hospital volunteer and was a Waterford resident for the last 5 years.

He is survived by son, James Marcia Carson of Apex, NC, daughter, Carol Glen Konet of Middleburg Heights, OH and son, John Carson of Coral Gables, FL. Grandchildren include: Mike Erin Konet of Rocky River, OH, Greg Carson of Dallas, TX, Steve Konet of Chicago, IL, Trent Carson of New York, NY and Christi Chad Christensen of Dallas, TX; and six great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Margaret Marne Carson; son, Steven Carson; granddaughter, Kelly Carson; and grandson, Marc Carson.

Friends may visit from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, January 6, 2011 in the Ontario Home of Wappner Funeral Directors, 100 S. Lexington-Springmill Road. Funeral services will be Friday at 11:00 a.m. in First Christian Church, 200 W. 3rd St., Mansfield, with visitation from 10-11 a.m. Burial with military honors will follow in Evergreen Cemetery, New Philadelphia, Ohio. Memorial contributions may be made to First Christian Church or the Macular Degeneration Society.