Charles William Willard, 88, was born into eternal life Thursday in Pittsburgh.

Charles was born to Mr. and Mrs. William Clyde Willard on May 8, 192, in Denver, Colo.

He was a retired mechanical engineer for U.S. Steel. His successful career transferred he and his family from Utah to Chicago, and then to Pittsburgh where they lived for 33 years.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Evelyn Domka Willard, a marriage of 61 years.

He was the proud father of four children, Gary Willard, who died in 1996, of Chicago, Carolyn Willard (Dan Sheetinger) of Montrose, Colo., Joe Willard of San Diego., Calif., and Diane Willard of Pittsburgh. He was the proud grandfather of Marc and Mike Willard of Downers Grove, Ill., Kristin Leydon (Sheetinger) of Denver, Colo., and William Willard of San Diego, Calif.

He was an honorable countryman. He served as a fighter pilot in the U.S. Air Force, flying a P-47 Thunderbolt during World War II.

His passions were his family, faith, hard work, and gardening. His life of preaching and teaching the value of honesty led to his quality of life. His joy of laughter and kindness helped to create his happiness and everlasting peace. He always shared a smile. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, who will be missed dearly but never forgotten.

<B>WILLARD</B> — Arrangements for Charles William Willard, who died Thursday, April 15, 2010, are being handled by <B>THOMAS M. SMITH FUNERAL HOME</B>, Blawnox, Pa.