Charles Edward Ridenour

Charles Edward Ridenour died December 15, 2024 in Estes Park, CO. He was born March 21, 1927 in Birdseye, IN. His parents were Charles “Dutch” and Dorothy (Main) Ridenour. Charles grew up with 2 sisters in a house with 2 bedrooms, a pot- bellied stove and an outhouse. From the age of 14, he boarded with his uncle for the summer helping with farm duties. He also delivered newspapers from ages 8 to 16. Horseback riding was his favorite activity and he also enjoyed Checkers, skating and sledding. In school, he enjoyed Math and Agriculture. Charles carried on his father’s love of music. He especially liked Frank Sinatra , Nelson Eddy and Jeannette MacDonald. He was a faithful attendee at the Disciples of Christ Church, which his grandfather built.

Charles joined the United States Army Air Force where he showed his abilities as an airplane mechanic and was schooled in Biloxi, MS. He was then chosen to work on big planes-bombers, B-52’s and B-29’s. He served his country in Guam, Manila and Okinawa.

Back home, he attended Okland City College, majoring in Business. He completed his MBA at Indiana University, then received Master’s Degrees in Business and Psychology at Illinois State University. He also spent summers studying in various other Universities. He started his civilian career, teaching High School Business Office Occupations in Illinois and Colorado.

On August 13, 1949, he married Virginia Smith, whom he met while she was teaching at Okland City College. Charles attributed a happy marriage to adoring his wife and giving her whatever she wanted. She taught him to like Classical Music and Opera, which he loved for the rest of his life. The couple had 2 children who survive him, Mimi Hardendorf and David Ridenour, both of Estes Park, CO. He is also survived by 2 sisters: Betty Spanbauer and Shirley and sister in law Marietta Smith, all of Indiana, grandson Benjamin Hardendorf of Englewood, CO.

Charles wanted to be remembered as a happy person. He was generous with his time and energy. He enjoyed cooking and serving on beautiful China, listening to music, visiting family and friends and helping those in need, and hiking with family.

A memorial service will be held Saturday April 12, 2025 at 11:00 AM at First Christian Church in Blooomington.

Memorial gifts may be made to The First Christian Church of Bloomington 401 W. Jefferson Street, Bloomington, IL 61701.

Visit www.allnuttestespark.com to send a message to Charles’ family.