Charles W. Newkirk, Sr.

The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941 was one of the most significant moments in American history, and Charles William Newkirk, was there. Serving in the U.S. Army, Charlie was at Hickam Field and watched the bombs falling. At 96 years old, Charlie, who still had memories of that day, was a member of the National Pearl Harbor Survivors and served as the Army Historian. He also served as President of the Indiana chapter for one year.

Charlie was born in Rushville, Indiana to Malcolm and Nora Newkirk. He had one brother, James Newkirk.He graduated from Graham High School in Rushville in 1938 and enlisted in the Army. He and his wife, the late Betty Lee Newkirk, were married in 1943. They settled in Indianapolis and started attending Roberts Park Church when their neighborhood church, Heath Memorial, closed it's doors in the 1970s. They had intended to visit several churches, but after one visit they stayed at Roberts Park. Charlie and Betty were the parents of three girls, Nora Liederbach, Susan McClary and Debbie Walker (Lonnie) and one son, Bill Newkirk (Vickie). they have six grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.

Charlie and Betty were active in the Kum Double Sunday School Class, and Charlie sang tenor in the chancel choir along with his daughter, Nora. He also served on the church's Finance Committee.

The former Indianapolis Transit trolley driver also worked as a district manager for the Indianapolis Star-News, and retired from American Fletcher National Bank in 1982.

Charles always had a library card and also loved his church. Memorial contributions may be made to the Indianapolis Public Library Foundation or to Roberts Park United Methodist Church.

The family would like to thank the staff at Kindred Wildwood Nursing Home for the excellent care given to Charles over the 4 years he lived there.