On Tuesday October 25, 2022, Charles Dewain May, age 90, beloved Dad, Grandpa, Great Grandpa, Brother, Uncle and friend to many passed away in Salina, Kansas surrounded by family.
Charles was born to Maude Della (Fink) and Harry Clay May in Codell, Kansas on July 8, 1932.
He was a veteran of the Korean Conflict, serving in the U.S. Navy as an Aviation Machinists Mate 3rd Class. Following his honorable discharge, he married Bernita May (Bates) on June 19, 1955, in Lucas, Kansas. Charles then attended Kansas State University where he received a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and went on to a full career as a Civil Engineer earning his Professional Engineering License along the way. One of the biggest joys in his career was the opportunity to share his knowledge, mentor and teach others. He taught Civil Engineering Technology at Kansas Technical Institute early in his career and he gave back to his profession post retirement by teaching Certified Inspector Training (CIT) at Kansas State University Salina campus for several years.
Charles was an avid woodworker. Following retirement, he spent countless hours perfecting his craft in his shop and loved to share his woodworking talents. Many who knew him have cherished works that he created and gifted over the years. Time spent with his family and especially his grandchildren was the absolute light of his life as he spent many days traveling to watch their activities over the years.
Charles was a dedicated Mason with a 60+ year membership of the Masonic Lodge of Marion, Ks where he achieved the rank of 32nd degree. He was also an active Shriner in Salina, Kansas in his younger years.
Charles was preceded in death by his loving wife, Bernita; father, Harry Clay, his mother, Maude, 3 sisters and 5 brothers.
He is survived by his daughters, Traci Lamar (Mike) of Raleigh, North Carolina, Sally Crawford (Rod), of Salina, Kansas; son, Chuck May (Marianne), of Wichita, Kansas; his 6 grandchildren, Morgan (Erica), Charles (Fatima), Trey (Lydia), Paige, Rhiana, Robby, and 4 great grandchildren, Emerson, Ellie, Zoey and Eva; his brother, Bob May of Hays, Kansas; and many nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life and Memorial Service will be held on Friday November 11, 2022, at 11:00 am at Carlson-Geisendorf Funeral Home in Salina, Kansas. Family burial to follow at the Lucas Cemetery in Lucas, Kansas.
Memorial donations may be made to Kansas State University College of Engineering-Department of Civil Engineering or Hospice of Salina, Kansas in care of Carlson-Geisendorf Funeral Home 500 S. Ohio St., Salina, Kansas 67401.