Charles Henry David

Charles Henry David passed away Saturday, January 11, 2025, at the age of 93. 

He was born August 26, 1931, son of the late Henry R. and Dorothy (Gilcher) David. Charles was the last surviving member of the second generation of the David family.

He was a lifelong resident of Sandusky and a fountain of knowledge of Sandusky and maritime history. He graduated from Sandusky High School in 1949. He was a proud veteran of the United States Coast Guard, serving during the Korean War era. He was privileged to attend the Veterans Honor Flight Cleveland to Washington D.C. in 2019.

After military service, he was self-employed as an automotive repair specialist for 60 years. Charles had a captain's license and ran Cedar Point Ferry boats for many years.

He was a former member of Erie County Chamber of Commerce, American Legion Post 83, AMVETS Post 17, Erie County Historical Society, Sandusky Yacht Club for 57 years, and Maritime Museum of Sandusky. He was a member of Sandusky Power Squadron, earning 70 merit marks and had served as squadron and district commander. He was a life member of the United States Power Squadron member emeritus of their governing board.

Charles enjoyed boating the Lake Erie area with his 26' Chris Craft "LA PETITE".

Charles is survived by his wife, Kathryn (Karge), whom he married May 3, 1952; daughter, Charla (Douglas) Johnson; five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; son-in-law, Dominic ("Nic") Wells; sister-in-law, Rose Marie Jonas; and nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Denise Kay Wells, September 26, 2016.

Calling hours at David F. Koch Funeral Home, Sandusky, Ohio, will be Wednesday, January 15, 2025, from 4-8 p.m., with Power Squadron services at 7 p.m. Funeral services will be the following morning, Thursday, January 16, 2025, at 10 a.m., with Deacon Jeff Claar presiding. Burial will be at Oakland Cemetery, Gilcher family plot. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Maritime Museum of Sandusky, 125 Meigs Street, Sandusky, Ohio 44870, or Back to the Wild, P.O. Box 423, Castalia, Ohio 44824.

Arrangements entrusted to David F. Koch Funeral & Cremation Services, 520 Columbus Ave, Sandusky.  

Your memories and words of comfort may be shared with his family at davidfkoch.com

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