Charles Vernon Ridlinghafer died October 10, 2023, in Purcell, Oklahoma at the age of 82 years 1 month 24 days. Funeral services were held Saturday, October 14, 2023, at Wadley’s Funeral Chapel, entrusted to the care of Wadley’s Funeral Service. Online condolences may be made, and service livestreamed at www.wadleysfuneralservice.com.
Charles was born August 27, 1941, in Duncan, Oklahoma. He was the third child of five born to Vernon William and Dessie M. (Jarrett) Ridlinghafer. Growing up in Duncan, Charles graduated from Duncan High School in 1959.
On August 3, 1959, Charles answered the call of duty and proudly served his country as a member of the United States Air Force. His time in the military was filled with honor and dedication until his honorable discharge on September 7, 1962.
Throughout his lifetime, Charles embraced various careers. From entrepreneur to salesman and eventually developing a finance program for car dealerships later in life, he demonstrated his versatility and commitment to hard work. A man of many talents and interests, Charles took pleasure in reading and remained actively engaged with those around him.
Known for his generosity and willingness to lend a helping hand whenever possible, Charles touched numerous lives through his involvement in the church community. He devoted many years teaching Sunday school and served on several boards while tirelessly fundraising for various organizations.
On December 1, 2012, Charles found love once again and married Thaya Sue Harper in Purcell. Together, they created a warm and loving home filled with cherished memories.
Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Dessie Ridlinghafer; his daughters, Beth Walker and Kolleen Winters; his sister, Colleen Winn; his grandchild, Rachel; his great-grandchild, James; a nephew, Steven; and a niece, Marilyn.
Survivors include his wife, Thaya; his daughters, Katina and husband, Brian, and Krystal and husband, Jack; his grandchildren, Sara, Jaimie, Jacob, Barley, McKensie, Chance, Chase, Kylie and Julia; his great-grandchildren, Megan, Tyler, C.J. and Benjamin Wayne; his siblings, Bill Ridlinghafer, Ralph Ridlinghafer and Jane Akins; his nieces and nephews, Sherry, Gary, Philip, John, Robert, Jarrett and Marlyn; and numerous other relatives and friends.
