Charles Claxton Cowing ’39

Charlie died Feb. 20, 2001, of heart disease, which he had had since his first cardiac attack in 1985. According to Marion, his wife of 60 years, he died instantly and peacefully in her arms at their home in Temecula, Calif., "so peacefully," she added, "even his pacemaker didn't go off." Throughout his career Charlie was involved in all phases of personnel management, first in Pennsylvania and then in California. Always an advocate for education, at the time of his retirement he was with the LA city schools.

Charlie was a glider pilot from the age of 15, so it's not surprising he joined the Army Air Corps in WWII, became a member of the famous 100th Bomber Group, flew 27 missions, and received five citations, four from General Doolittle: the Air Medal, three Oak Clusters and the Distinguished Flying Cross. Back home he was always a family man first, delighting in his daughter, Anne, granddaughters Melanie and Melissa, and great-grandson Connor. To Marion and all the family he loved, we offer our heartfelt sympathy.

The Class of 1939