Charles Ebert Kimmell

Charles E. Kimmell passed away on Saturday July 26, 2008, in San Antonio. He was born on January 20, 1923, in Cherokee, Oklahoma, the third of six children, to Robert and Etta Kimmell. Charles served as a U.S. Army artilleryman in World War II and the Korean War. During Germany's Ardennes Offensive, on December 19, 1944, near Mageret, Belgium, Charles was captured. He was freed on April 29, 1945, when the Army liberated Stalag 7-A, near Munich. For his military service, he was awarded eight Battle Stars, the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, the Belgium Croix de Guerre and the Ex-POW Medal. In 1950, Charles earned a degree in geological engineering from the University of Oklahoma. He worked in San Antonio for several oil companies before becoming an independent in 1960. Charles made significant contributions to South Texas oil and gas exploration, and he was able to remain active in his profession until his death. Charles was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Hallie Forde Kimmell; his second wife, Yvonne Banks Kimmell; and his siblings Vivian, Robert, and Doris Jean. He is survived by his daughter Elizabeth Turner and her husband, the Rev. Timothy J. Turner San Antonio; his son, Thomas Allen Kimmell Helena, Montana; his brother A.T. Kimmell Topeka, Kansas; his sister Margaret Lou Kimmell San Antonio; his sisters-in-law Doris May Kimmell St. Augustine, Florida, Irene Marcopoulos France and Annie Olivier France; and many nephews and nieces. Charles was an adventuresome, kind and gentle man, whose faith was quiet and whose life spirit was indefatigable. With him a friendship was steady and secure. Charles was a loving husband and father, and we will miss him.