Charles Lee Eblen

Charles ("Charlie") Lee Eblen of Springfield, VA, passed away December 5, 2019. He was 77. Charlie was born in Coeburn, VA, on November 16, 1942, to Fred and Leota Eblen. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Janice Holleman and Clara Grizzle. He was a graduate of Coeburn High School and served in the United States Air Force from 1964 to 1968 during the Vietnam War. While he was in the Air Force, he was stationed at Bergstrom Air Force Base and was detailed to the LBJ ranch. After working ten years in private industry as a welder, he began his career with the federal government in 1979, He retired in 2007 from the Smithsonian's Museum of Natural History after 28 years of service. He enjoyed his retirement by taking daily walks through his neighborhood, working in his yard, and watching old westerns and sports on television. Charlie is survived by his wife of 44 years, Katherine Sherry Eblen of Springfield, VA, his sons Matthew Ryan Eblen (Kisha) of Charleston, WV and Andrew Charles Eblen (Shunell) of Manassas, VA, and four grandchildren (Brandon, Summer, Jordynn and Nathan Eblen). A celebration of life will be held at a later date.