Charles H Tranbarger

Charles H. Tranbarger, 95 years of age, of Holdrege, Nebraska, (formerly of Ravenna), passed away on Wednesday, September 3, 2014 at Holdrege Memorial Homes.  Private family memorial services for Charles H. Tranbarger will be held at a later date at the Highland Park Cemetery in Ravenna, Nebraska.

Charles was born January 2, 1919 in rural Conrad, Iowa, the third of seven children born to Charles H. Tranbarger Sr. and Lucille (Geier) Tranbarger.  He received his education from Conrad Public Schools and graduated from Conrad High School.  Following his education, he worked on his uncle's farm until enlisting in the United States Navy on January 3, 1941.  He served for 6 years during World War II in both theaters of the war and retired as Chief Storekeeper.  He was honorably discharged on February 18, 1947.

On July 31, 1943, Charles was united in marriage to Lenore Helebrant in Washington D.C. and to this union one daughter, Damaris was born.  Following the Navy, Charles began a career in the lumber business.  He worked in Iowa for many years until the family relocated to Ravenna in 1956 to join the Greenslit Lumber Company.  During his years as manager for the Chicago & Century Lumber yards, Charles received several top awards for his hard work.  He retired in December of 1988, after 32 years of employment.  In 2001, he and Lenore relocated to Holdrege to be closer to family.  Lenore preceded him in death on April 1, 2008.

He enjoyed feeding the birds at North Park in Holdrege, but most importantly loved sharing his life story with family and friends and spending time with his grandchildren.  Charles was a member of the Ravenna Lions Club, The American Legion Post #332 in Ravenna, V.F.W. Post #5820, the Eagles, and several dance clubs in the Ravenna area.

He leaves to mourn his passing; his daughter, Damaris "Dee" Sawyer and her husband, Jay of Holdrege; three grandchildren; one great-grandson and many relatives and friends.

There will be no visitation as the family is honoring Charles' wish for cremation.

A memorial has been established in Charles' honor and kindly suggested to Holdrege Memorial Homes, The Phelps County Senior Center or the Ravenna Lions Club.

Expressions of caring and kindness can be sent to the family at www.nelsonbauerfh.com

The Nelson-Bauer Funeral Home in Holdrege is in charge of the arrangements.