Charles "Charlie" Key passed away, in his home, surrounded by family on April 20, 2023 at the age of 91. Charlie was born on August 2, 1931 to parents, Ernest Key and Julia LeDou. He grew up in Oklahoma with his sister, Evelyn and his brother Roy.
In October of 1948, at the age of 17, Charlie enlisted in the United States Navy. He served his country during the Korean War and was awarded the China Service Medal, the Navy Occupation Award, the Korean Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal, and a Lifetime Member of the VFW, Veterans of Foreign War.
When Charlie returned to civilian life, he became a California licensed electrical and air conditioning contractor. He later worked as an engineer for JPL and after retiring, Charlie became a full time farmer.
Charlie married Christine Key in November of 1952 until her passing in September 2014. They had two children, three grandchildren, and four great grandchildren. He then married Ramona Key in October 2015 until his passing.
He was a lifetime member of his local churches, Assembly of God in Azusa, California, the First Christian Church in Madera, California and the Living Waters Church of Brookings, Oregon.
Charlie was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, father in law, uncle and friend. He was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need and he will be sorely missed by all who had the great pleasure of knowing him.
A visitation for Charles will be held Friday, May 5, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Palm Memorial Worden Chapel, 140 South 6th Street, Chowchilla,California. A graveside service will occur Saturday, May 6, at 10:00 am at the Chowchilla Cemetery, 23359 Road 14 1/2, Chowchilla, California.
Following graveside a church service will be held at the First Christian Church of Madera at 2300 Sunset Avenue at 12:00 pm.
The family requests any donations to honor Charlie be made to the Gideon Society via sendtheword.org.
Please visit www.wordenchapel.com to leave the family any condolences. Arrangements are under the direction of Palm Memorial Worden Chapel, Lori Whatley, Funeral Arranger.
