Charles M. Richeson, Jr.

Charles Melville Richeson, Jr., 88, passed away September 6th at home with his family by his side.

Born September 14, 1930 in Lynchburg, VA, Charlie's farm town roots were a prominent feature of his personality. A graduate of the Miller School of Albemarle Class of 1949, he also studied at the Virginia Tech. After serving his country honorably for four years and achieving the rank of sergeant in the United States Air Force, Charlie settled in Baltimore where he married Eleanor Dorothy Richeson (nee Grimm) February 7, 1958. A 55 year resident of Harford County, Charlie and Eleanor raised their family in Bel Air. Having a keen eye for sales and the gift of gab, Charlie excelled in his 13 years with the Victor Adding Machine Company of Baltimore County. Charlie then became the Owner & Operator of Employer-Employee Exchange Company of Towson for 21 years until his retirement.

A member of the American Legion for over 60 years, Charlie served as Post Commander for the American Legion Waverly Post 164 and was a member of American Legion Harford Post 39 in Bel Air. As an avid boater and fisherman, he was a past Commodore and member of the Bush River Yacht Club. When on land, Charlie's favorite pastime was playing golf.

Always a family man, Charlie and Eleanor built a family bound by love. He taught us that "a bird can't fly on one wing" meaning that Eleanor's fried chicken should be eaten two pieces at a time. He called it like he saw it and would freely ask "What the Sam Hill?" when he disapproved of something. And, we learned that it is okay to disagree and love each other, after all, "that's why they make red hats and green hats". A man of humble beginnings, Charlie was quick to remind his children and grandchildren that when he was a child he only had one pair of pants. And when his mama did wash, he had to stay inside.

Charlie is survived by his children Laura Richeson, Sue Richeson Patton, Amy Richeson Lofland and Stefan Stacy; his sons-in-law Bobby Patton and Jack Lofland; long-time family friend Evelyn Lollis; his grandchildren Bret Patton, Megan Rose Willis, Molly Patton, Kylee Bropleh, Katherine Elle Lofland, Haley Lofland, Read Patton, and Emma Lofland; and by his companion Bonnie Heider.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to The American Legion (https://www.legion.org/donate/waystogive) or to the Wounded Warrior Project (https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/).