On September 30, 1941, Charles Edward McKelvy, Sr. was born to the union of Cleven and Cleo (Rhodes) McKelvy. He was the third of thirteen children. He was preceded into eternity by his parents; four brothers, Larry Ray, Harry C., Billy Ray and Raymond; three sisters, Ruby Jewell, Ruthell Pitre and Etta Faye Dean. Charles was educated at Lincoln High School, Penn Valley Community College, and also during the time he served in the United States Marine Corps. He has held employment at Ford Motor Company, Lake City Arsenal and Mobay Chemical Company. It is difficult to explain the closeness of his relationships and friendships. Charles' friendships lasted an entire lifetime. The children he grew up with on 23rd & Montgall, and those he attended Lincoln High School with are still friends today (the Reese's, North's & Thomas' to name a few). Charles loved his friends and family, and hosted many parties and gatherings. He belonged to a social organization called, 'The Group', for over forty years. In 1969, Charles married his wife of 46 years and to this union one son, Charles II, was born. This father and son brought joy to each other as Charles battled his illness. The last years of Charles's life, even though he fought cancer, were not spent in unhappiness. He spent quality time with his son, his family, and his friends. He talked to almost every family member, encouraging them to 'get it together' because life is too short to be bothered by trivialities. He spent hours watching and video recording as his son fished. He let his son know that he was 'right with God' and he was not afraid to take the 'next step (death)'. He said that his only regret was that he would not be here for his son. When Charles became ill he spent many hours talking to his son trying impress upon him the importance of holding your family and friends close, and never losing sight of what is important in life because we don't have much time. On March 28, about 3:15 P.M., surrounded by son, wife, family, and friends, he left us and started the next phase of his life. Be happy for him. To cherish his memory he leaves: his wife, Earline; son, Charles; daughter, Sandra; two brothers, Jerry (Sheila) and Ray Charles (Cynthia); three sisters, Joyce (Scott), Linda (Albert) and Shirley; four grandchildren and a host of nephews, nieces, other relatives and many friends including the wonderful residents of the Opportunity Pavilion. Funeral services will be Saturday, April 2, 11:00 a.m. at Pentecostal Church of God In Christ. Interment Leavenworth National Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9:00-11:00 a.m. at the church. Services conducted by Duane E. Harvey Funeral Directors. Condolences may be shared on this website.