Charles William Caldwell, 66, of Oak Harbor, passed away at Providence Everett Medical Center Colby Campus on Nov. 26, 2008, following an unexpected, brief illness.

Mr. Caldwell was born in Vicksburg, Miss., on May 11, 1942, to George Edward Caldwell and Edna Earl Ryles Caldwell. At age 18 he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving his country during the Vietnam conflict. He eventually retired as a Senior Chief Yeoman, and entered Civil Service, employed as Liaison Officer at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island. He was the recipient of numerous awards and commendations associated with his distinguished naval service.

On August 6, 1979, Charles married Rita Campos Sevilla in Oak Harbor. They had most recently been attending Living Hope Four Square Church in Coupeville. Charles and Rita’s passion was serving the Lord in missions work in the Philippines, where they had been responsible for building a chapel for a couple of years and feeding poor children at different locations in Palompon, Leyte. Charles had a very generous and giving heart and was a regular contributor to various religious organizations, including Children’s Concern International, Rizal Evangelical Church and Shepherd’s Fold Youth Center.

Charles is survived by his loving wife, Rita, at home in Oak Harbor; two sisters, Edna and Rose, both of Vicksburg, Miss.; , as well as other family, relatives and close friends.

A Memorial Service was held Nov. 30 at Whidbey Memorial Chapel, Robert Burke officiating. Memorials may be made to the Charles Caldwell Memorial Fund, c/o AlaskaUSA Federal Credit Union, 650 NE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor, WA 98277, to benefit the Caldwells’ missionary work in the Philippines. Arrangements are with the assistance of Whidbey Memorial Funeral and Cremation Service, Inc., Oak Harbor. Family and friends are encouraged to sign the guest register at www.whidbeymemorial.com.