Charles Leroy Preston

Charles “Charlie” Preston, 92, of Wichita Falls died Tuesday, October 9, 2012 at his home. Services have been scheduled for 10:00 a.m., Monday, October 15, 2012 at Hampton Vaughan Funeral Home Chapel.

Charlie was born May 22, 1920 in Sheffield, IL to William Franklin “Frank” and Edith (Phillips) Preston. He proudly served our country in the Army Air Corps during WWII reaching the rank of First Lieutenant. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Engineering and a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting. He married Helen Marie Pike July 28, 1943 in Pampa, Texas and together they raised three boys. Charlie was a member of the First Methodist Church. Charlie was very involved in the Elks Lodge 1105 for at least 48 years. He held many different offices including Past State President and Grand Lodge Committee Chairman. There is a scholarship fund set up in his and Helen’s name through the Elks Lodge.

Mr. Preston is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 57 years, Helen Preston in 2001; sister, Barbara Gufstason; and grandson, Jason Preston.

Survivors include his three devoted sons and their wives, Larry Preston, Michael and Debora Preston, Dave and Nelda Preston all of Wichita Falls; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Elaine and Lou Hast of Moline, IL, Helen and Wayne Howell of Bettendorf, IA; daughter-in-law and faithful caregiver, Zellene H. Preston; six grandchildren, Nicole, Charles II, Colby, David Jr, Chris, Jason; and eight great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be held 2:00-4:00 p.m., Sunday, October 14, 2012 at Hampton Vaughan Funeral Home.

If desired, memorials may be made to the Helen and Charlie Preston Scholarship Fund at Elks Lodge 1105.

Please share your condolences and fond memories with the Preston family at www.hamptonvaughancrestview.com.