SOUTH PARIS — Charles E. Benge, 79, of Lovell, passed peacefully early Sunday afternoon, March 6, 2016, at the Maine Veterans’ Home in South Paris.

He was born on Jan. 1, 1937, in Versailles, Ky., a son of Lige and Stella (Adams) Benge. He was raised in Richmond, Ind., graduating from the Richmond High School. 

After graduation, Charlie enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he attained the rank of Sergeant First Class. He spent 20 years serving his country, including two tours of duty in Vietnam. He received numerous commendation letters and medals including the Bronze Star with one oak leaf cluster, Meritorious Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and Vietnam Service Medal with one silver and two bronze Service Stars.

On March 31, 1964, he married Claudia Hutto in Fort Hood, Texas, whom he had met in the service. They lived throughout the United States ultimately settling in Lovell in 1998. In his retirement, he proudly attended Westbrook College, where he earned a four-year bachelor’s of science degree in Business Administration in only two years.

Charlie was very involved in the Fryeburg/Lovell VFW Post #6783, holding various offices over the years, including commander. He also was a member and active in the Lovell Masonic Lodge #153

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He will be forever missed and loved by his wife, Claudia Benge of South Paris; two sons, John of Levant and Scott of Fort Wayne, Ind.; a sister, Orpha “Sis” Hampton of New Paris, Ohio; and six grandchildren.

He was predeceased by siblings, Jessie Mae Benge Chism, John W. Benge (Bill), Mary G. Benge Consolino, Thomas C. Benge, Sherman I. Benge, Donald Benge and Robert W. Benge.

A graveside service with military and Masonic honors will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, May 20, 2016, at the Number 4 Cemetery in Lovell.

Gifts may be given in his memory to either the Veterans’ Need Fund or the Resident Activity Fund at the Maine Veterans’ Home, 477 High St., South Paris, ME 04281.

Arrangements are in the care of the Wood Funeral Home, 9 Warren Street, Fryeburg. Words of condolence and tribute may be shared with Charlie’s family at www.woodfuneralhome.org