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Memory Eternal! + Charles G. Ofiesh

Nov. 22, 1924 - Aug. 23, 2010

Charles G. Ofiesh, 85, of St. George Orthodox Church in Altoona, PA fell asleep in the Lord Monday, August 23, 2010. Charlie was a long time member of The Order of St. Ignatius and served many years on the parish council as a member and chair. He initiated an Endowment Fund and worked tirelessly for the good of the parish. In 2005 he was awarded the Antonian Silver Medal by Metropolitan Philip. He was for most of his life in the parish, “always there.” He will be greatly missed. His leadership in the parish, in Altoona and in Pennsylvania is established by the list of organizations and accomplishments of his life as well as his three children, three grand-children and six great grandchildren.

He was born in Albany, N.Y., son of George and Emily (Ofiesh) Ofiesh. He married Helen V. Ajay on Sept. 4, 1949, and she preceded him in death on May 14, 2009.

Charles was a 1942 graduate of Altoona High School. He was a U.S. Army veteran of WWII, serving in the Pacific theater, and the Korean conflict. He retired as a Command Sergeant Major after serving 41 years in the Pennsylvania Army Reserve. He received 26 awards and decorations, including the Legion of Merit and the Meritorious Service medals.

He retired as a general contractor and owner of Ofiesh Construction.

Charles was a member of the Altoona Zoning Board for more than 45 years, past president and life director of the Pennsylvania Builders Association, past commander of the local and Pennsylvania Disabled American Veterans, past commander of the American Legion, life member of the VFW, life member of Cooties and parade marshal in Altoona for more than 30 years.

He was a member of the Blair County Industrial Authority, ABCD Corp. and Flag Day Committee, senior life director and member of the National Association of Home Builders, past president and member of Blair County Builders Association and past commander of the Blair County War Veterans Council. He was a lieutenant colonel in the Civil Air Patrol and was elected alderman for six years.

The Funeral Service was held on Friday, August 27 at 11 am at St. George Orthodox Church in Altoona, PA and he was laid to rest with full military honors at Alto Reste Cemetery in Altoona.

Donations may be made to The Endowment Fund at St. George Orthodox Church in Altoona, PA 16602, 519 58th St. in memory of Charlie.

May his memory be eternal!