Charles Eugene Maxwell, 95, of Junction City, KS, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 2, 2024 at Via Christi Village in Manhattan, KS.
Charles was born on April 5, 1929, on the family farm in Worth County, MO to John and Susa Maxwell. He enlisted in the Army at Fort Riley, KS in January, 1947. While stationed at Fort Davis, Panama, Charles met the love of his life, Rosalba Gloria Agames Martinez. They were married on June 24, 1949.
Charles returned to Fort Riley in 1966 where he retired from active duty as a Platoon Sargeant (PSG) on April 1, 1967, and settled his family in nearby Junction City. Charles continued his career as an aircraft mechanic at Marshall Field for the Department of Defense and worked another 22 years. The last 2 years, Charles worked at the USACA correctional facility as a teacher, helping to train soldiers who were leaving the army, in trades such as plumbing, carpentry, or painting to provide them with the skills to find employment in the civilian world. Charles retired from federal civil service in 1989. He took great pride in his service to his country.
Charles was a long-time member of First Baptist Church of Junction City, and for many years served as a leader in AWANAS, as 4W Sunday school class teacher, in Men’s Fellowship, as well as serving as both Trustee and Deacon.
Charles was also active for many years in Gideons International, was a member of the Retired Enlisted Association and American Legion, and was a supporter of Disabled American Veterans.
Charles was predeceased by his parents; sister, Lela May; brother, Edward Junior; first wife, Gloria; second wife, Margaret Pearl Ricketts; son, Charles Eugene Maxwell, Jr.; daughter, Catherine Elaine Jackson Stanford; and granddaughter, Jamie Jackson.
Charles is survived by his sisters Anna Jean Adams of Maryville, MO, Mary Alice Maxwell of St. Joseph, MO, and Shirley Ann Shoesmith of Lee’s Summit, MO; brother Eddie Clay (Susan) of Maryville MO; daughter, Judy Waterman (Jim) of Simpsonville, SC; son, Joseph Maxwell of Manhattan, KS; daughter Donna McAlhaney (Frank) of Snellville, GA; son Lenny Maxwell (Michelle) of Owasso, OK; eight grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren.
A graveside service will be held at Rose Hill Cemetery in Parnell, MO at a date to be determined.