Obituary of Charles Howard Schmotzer

Charles Howard Schmotzer, son of Wendel J. and Marie Schmotzer, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, August 12, 2011. Born in Pittsburg, Pa. on April 27, 1917, he grew up in Youngstown, OH and dreamed at an early age of flying. At eighteen he soloed at the same field where he had seen Charles Lindbergh circle when he was nine. After graduating from East High School he enlisted in the Army Air Corps. He obtained the rank of 1st Lt, flew a C-47 with the 53rd wing of the 9th Air Corps. He flew in eight major battles in the European Theatre including Normandy and earned fourteen medals for his service. Upon completing his service to our country, he was a flight instructor before becoming Executive Director for Boys? Clubs of America. He was director in Tampa, Kingsport, and Columbia. Upon retirement he dedicated himself to fine woodworking and the refinishing of antiques. Charles is survived by wife of 69 years, Ruby Paul Schmotzer; a son Donald Schmotzer (Dianne); a daughter Gale Frady (Ray) and three grandsons who he adored, 1st Lt Stanley Schmotzer (Kimnberly), Sean Frady and Hunter Frady. A graveside service will be held at Woodridge Memorial Park on Tuesday, August 16, 2011 at 11:00 am. In lieu flowers, memorials may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church of West Columbia.