"To the Kofron family, I have many memories of crossing through the backyard of the Kofron home in the 1960s to visit Chuck, but also being greeted by Chuck's mother, Beth, Barb, Kevin and, of course, Chuck's dad Charlie. Charlie was energetic, friendly, and always willing to explain how to accomplish a task in the most efficient way. Charlie was a role model of what a kind human being should be. His smile and laughter will always stay with us. This is a late tribute, but one I had to make."
In loving memory of
Charles William Kofron
November 4, 1920 - September 26, 2014
Charles "Charlie" William Kofron, 93, of Tipton, died peacefully in his home, with family enjoying his recipe of vegetable beef soup, on September 26, 2014. Funeral services for Charlie will be held at 10:30AM, Wednesday, October 1, 2014 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Tipton, Iowa. Burial will be at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery, Tipton, Iowa. Visitation will be Tuesday, September 30, 2014 from 4-7PM at Fry Funeral Home in Tipton, Iowa. A memorial has been established in Charlie's honor. Online condolences may be shared at www.fryfuneralhome.com.
Charlie was born November 4, 1920 in rural Iowa City, Iowa, son of Frank and Rose Walta Kofron. He attended West Branch High School. He served the Army Artillery in WWII. On Charlie's birthday in 1946, he married Anne Cecilia Lynch at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Iowa City, Iowa. Together, he and Anne had twin daughters, Barbara and Bethany, and sons, Kevin and Charles known as "Chuck". Charlie was a carpenter, builder and lock-smith during his working years. Since 1970, he and son, Kevin, have owned and operated Kofron Builders. He served on the Tipton Fire Department for 22 years. He enjoyed watching the birds, fishing and hunting. Charlie was also a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Tipton, Iowa.
Charlie is survived by his daughters, Barbara (Ken) Renkenberger of Omaha, Nebraska, and Bethany Newnum of Tipton, Iowa; son, Kevin (Jodi) Kofron of Tipton, Iowa; sister, Dorothy Richard, Arkansas; grandchildren, Michael Newnum, Jason (Victoria) Newnum, Virginia "Ginny" (Ben) Pratt, Aaron (Deidra) Renkenberger, Kara Kofron, Jill Kofron and Jamie Kofron; great-grandchildren, Emily Renkenberger, Madisen Pratt, Samantha Pratt, and ElÃas Newnum DeDios. Charlie was preceded in death by his spouse, Anne; son, Charles "Chuck" Kofron; 7 brothers; and 3 sisters.
Tributes
"Bethany and Family, I am sorry to hear of your loss. Charlie was a real asset in Tipton. Although I didn't know him well, I know he will be missed by many folks because of all the little things he did for others all the time. May your memories comfort you during this time."
"Dear Ginny and Bethany, I am so sorry for your loss. You and the whole family are in my thoughts. I hope you take comfort in remembering and celebrating his life. Love, Saba"
"Kevin and family Sad to say I did not get to know Charles well, BUT I thank God for becoming GREAT FRIENDS with his son Chuck. It's clear Chuck's strong work ethic and his ROCK SOLID character came from Dad and Mom. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. Kevin, but I have a question. Why did your beloved Dad wear his cap like that?"
"To Barbara, Bethany, Kevin & Family- Dad (Richard Kofron, Frank's son) and I (Lisa Kofron, his daughter) were so sad to hear of your loss- our hearts go out to you, and we share such wonderful memories of "uncle Charlie". Sorry we could not be there, but we are there in spirit, thinking of you at this time. Much love, Richard & Lisa in Melbourne, FL"
"My deepest sympathy to the families of Kevin and Bethany. Charlie was such a neat guy. I got to know while he shared his skills with me being a locksmith. There was never a lock he couldn't fix or open for me in office work or my own private life. I know he loved and cared so much for his wife which truly touched me. May you find comfort in his blessings of life! "
"Bethany and family, I'm sorry to hear of your loss. May your memories help you find comfort during this difficult time. Keeping your family in our prayers."
"My condolences to you Bethany and your family. You are in my thoughts. "
"With deepest sympathy to the entire Kofron family on your loss. Your caring efforts with respect to your father and his wishes speak volumes. Sandy"