Charles Martin "Charlie" Mehl Sr.

Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Charles Martin "Charlie" Mehl Sr., 89, of Springfield, Mo., closed his eyes in peaceful rest on Friday, May 13, 2016, in Mercy Hospital, Springfield. He was born July 24, 1926, in Billings, Mo., to Martin F. and Mary Rose (Ortwein) Mehl.

He graduated from St. Joseph Catholic School and then from Billings High School, Class of 1945. After graduation, he enlisted in the Army and was a U.S. Army Veteran.

Charlie married the love of his life, Rita Veronica Deely, in Cabool, Mo., on June 20, 1953. They had three children. He worked for the Federal Department of Agriculture until retiring in 1994. He was active in the Catholic Church in Springfield, Nevada and Mount Vernon, serving in the Men's Club and with the Knights of Columbus.

He was the best father in the world and loved his wife and family very much. He enjoyed the outdoors and camping with family and friends.

Charlie was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Mary Katherine "Dee" Mehl; a baby brother, George; as well as a daughter, Mary Elizabeth Mehl.

He is survived by his wife, Veronica; a son, Charles M. "Marty" Jr.; a daughter, Karla Mehl Garrison; one granddaughter, Karly (Garrison) Maloney and husband, Josh; two brothers, Raymond Mehl and Joe Mehl and wife, Jerri; and nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends. Charlie always had a smile and his eyes lit up for family and friends.

A visitation was held from 6 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, May 17, with a Rosary service at 7 p.m., in Meadors Funeral Home, Billings. The funeral Mass will be at 11 a.m., today, in St. Joseph Catholic Church, Billings. Burial, with military honors, will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery, Billings.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Diabetes Association.

Online condolences may be shared at www.meadorsfuneralhome.com.