Charles "Charlie" Edward Silkwood, a longtime resident of Henryetta, died Jan. 8, 2018 at his Henryetta home at the age of 69. Charlie was born March 8, 1948 in Henryetta to Theodore Pete Silkwood and Geraldine Marie (George) Silkwood. Charlie grew up in the Henryetta and Little Kansas area, attending school in both areas.
Charlie served in the U.S. Army from 1968 to 1969, including a tour of duty in Viet Nam. He was honorably discharged after approximately two years of faithful service. As a young man Charlie spent a lot of time living and working in California and Idaho. He spent most of his adult life working as an accomplished auto mechanic. Charlie worked for approximately 10 years for Oklahoma Tire and Supply Company where he worked on cars, until OTASCO closed its doors.
He is preceded in death by his mother and father; his two brothers, Teddy Silkwood and Bobby Joe Silkwood; and a brother-in-law, Luke James.
Charlie is survived by his three sons: Scott Silkwood and wife Brandi, Michael Silkwood, and Kevin Silkwood and wife Tish, all of Henryetta; a daughter, Stacey Dawson of Morris; 11 grandchildren: Sierra Silkwood, Shayna Silkwood, Saige Silkwood, Michael Silkwood Jr., Logan Silkwood, Braden Arntfield, Mackenzie Arntfield, Lyndzie Arntfield, Easton Dawson, Blake Silkwood, and Pasly Silkwood; a great grandchild, Aria Silkwood; brother, Tommy Silkwood of Henryetta; sister, Joyce James of Arkansas; as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews, other extended family, and many good friends.
Viewing for Charlie will be held Thursday from noon until 8 p.m. at Integrity Funeral Service in Henryetta. A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, January 12, 2018 at Integrity Chapel with Chaplain Jim Beckett, of Good Journey Hospice officiating. Interment will follow immediately at Salem Cemetery under the direction of Integrity Funeral Service.
Pallbearers will be Scott Silkwood, Mike Silkwood, Kevin Silkwood, Jason Dawson, Michael Silkwood Jr., and Aaron Davis. Honorary bearers will be Rusty Kellogg and Larry Baucum.
The family has designated the Disabled American Veterans National Service Chapter, 3725 Alexandria Pike, Cold Spring, KY 41076 as appropriate for memorial contributions. They also wish to thank the special people of Good Journey Hospice in Dewar for their wonderful care during Charlie's illness.