Charles Wesley Kane Jr.

Charles Wesley Kane Jr., “Poppa Claus” of Dover, Delaware passed away on Tuesday, February 17, 2015, at Christiana Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.  Charles was born on February 29, 1940, in Upland, Pennsylvania.  Although he lived for 74 years, as a “leapling” he just passed his 18th birthday.  Charles was the son of the late Tommy and Verna Williams Bowden, Jr.  He was also preceded in death by his mother in law, Eloise Bright Darrell; and grandchildren David and Michael Rodan.

Charles graduated from Media High School in Media, PA.  On October 14, 1958, he enlisted in the United States Air Force at the age of 18.  He had an accomplished career as an Aircraft Mechanic, serving at various locations around the world, including Japan and Vietnam.   

In 1979, as a decorated Master Sergeant, he retired from the Air Force.  After which he worked for Delaware corrections, and then security at Dover Downs, eventually retiring from there as well.  On May 19, 1984, he married Jean, the love of his life.  In 2004, they exchanged vows once again.

Charles was known to everyone as Poppa Claus, or simply Poppa, he enjoyed playing Santa for the kids.  He was as avid reader, and also liked cooking, collecting trains, and taking care of his fish tanks.  Above all he enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, and friends.

Charles leaves behind Jean, his loving wife of 30 years; sister, Suzanne Bowden of Washington D.C.; children, Larry “Hippie” (Kimmie) of Sanford, NC, James “Jaime” (Patty) of Bridgeville, Jeanette, “Nette” (Clif) of Middletown, and Pamela “Oops” (David) of Dover, and his estranged daughter, Vonnie Kane; grandchildren Robert “Jamie” (Sarah), Jean Marie, Winter, Todd “Toad” (Shea), Beth (Jimbob), Mindy “Moonbeam Princess” (Jaron), Tre, Steven “Frodo”, Harley (Tim), Jessie “Precious”, Austin, Schuyler, Steph (Dan) and Jenn; 10 great grandchildren, 2 cousins, and an extended group of family and friends.

A Memorial Service will take place on Friday, February 27, 2015, at 12:00 noon, at Pippin Funeral Home, 119 W. Camden Wyoming Avenue, Wyoming, Delaware 19934.  Friends may call two hours prior.  Burial with full Military Honors, will take place at 2:00 pm at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Millsboro, Delaware.  The Delaware Patriot Guard Riders will escort Master Sergeant Charles Kane to his final resting place.

Letters of condolences can be sent via www.pippinfuneralhome.com

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