Charles D. Wilfong

Charles D. “Charlie” Wilfong, 83, of Goshen, died early Tuesday morning, December 22, 2009, at his home.  He had been in failing health since July. He was born in Maroa, Illinois, on July 15, 1926 to the late William and Mabel (Simpson) Wilfong.  He married Vivian Miller on September 28, 1945 in Elkhart.  She survives. Also surviving are three son, Harold Wilfong, Philip (Roberta) Wilfong, and Kim (Sue) Wilfong, all of Goshen; nine grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Jewel Crume of South Whitley and Wilma Mitchel of North Webster. He was preceded in death by four sisters, Suzella, Helen, Mary and Annabelle; and three brothers, William and Carl Wilfong, and Eldon Manlove. Mr. Wilfong served with the US Navy during World War II from November 1944 to July 1946. After his discharge from the nave he began to work at Hodgson Ace Hardware, eventually purchasing the business in 1954, retiring in 1986.  He and his wife were involved for many years in animal rescue, providing care and nurture to abused and abandoned animal.  He also enjoyed working at the Wilfong Christmas Tree Farm.  Mr. Wilfong was a member of First Brethren Church, New Paris. Friends may call 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, December 23, at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, where a 10:00 a.m., Thursday, December 24, 2009, funeral service will be conducted.  Pastor Ted Schowengerdt of First Brethren Church, New Paris will officiate. Burial will follow in Violett Cemetery, Goshen. Memorial contributions may be made to First Brethren Church, New Paris.