12/15/2022
Charles Arthur Wilson, Jr. of Willow Grove, PA passed away peacefully at home on December 7, 2022. He was 88 years old.
Charles was the loving and devoted husband of Clara (nee Olivo) Wilson of Udine, Italy for 66 years. Clara predeceased her husband in July 2022.
During their time on Earth, they raised two children. Son Charles, wife Audrey, and children Charles and Travis Wilson. Chas. Jr, and wife Alyssa have a son Lucas Arthur Wilson, who is Charlie’s great grandson. Daughter Barbara (nee Wilson) Davis, spouse Anthony, and children Harper and Barbara’s daughter Clara.
Charles was predeceased by his parents Charles Arthur Wilson, Sr. of Germantown, PA and his mother Winifred (nee McGeever) Wilson of Ballyboes, Donegal, Ireland. Also predeceasing him were his sisters Winifred Brown, Dorothy Tierney, and brother William (Bill) Wilson.
Charles “Charlie” Wilson, Jr. was born at home in Philadelphia in 1934 and attended Germantown High School. He joined the Air Force in 1954 and was stationed at Aviano Air Force Base in northern Italy. There he met his future wife, Clara Olivo, at a wedding. They were married 6 months later. From Italy, Charles, Clara and newborn Charles were transferred to Wheeler Airforce base in Libya, Africa.
Charlie was honorably discharged from the Air Force and raised his family, first in Philadelphia and then in Willow Grove, PA. He had a successful career in the U.S. Postal Service as a letter carrier (like his father,) eventually was promoted through the ranks, and ultimately retired as Postmaster of Devon, PA.
Charlie was devoted to the James A. Flaherty Council, Knights of Columbus (Grand Knight 2005,) where he was a 4th degree Knight and held various leadership posts during his time with them. He was a long-time member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH.) He and Clara spent countless hours supporting the good works of both organizations. Charles also marched with the Mummers in Philly, supported the Reilly Raiders, and followed The Irish Thunder Bagpipers.
All in all, a life well lived. Leaving behind a legacy of love, friendship, and kindness…
On Friday February 17th, there will be a private burial service at Washingtons Crossing Military Cemetery where Charlie will be buried with full military honors.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Saturday, February 18, 2023
• Visitation will be at St. David’s Church, Old York Road, Willow Grove PA. from 9:30 to 10:30AM
• Mass will be held at St. David’s Church at 10:30AM
• Celebration of Life will be at the Knights of Columbus in Glenside, PA from 1 to 5PM in the upstairs hall.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Charlie’s name can be made to the Knights of Columbus. Checks to be made out to “Flaherty Council 3128” and mailed to Jack Bellantoni, Financial Secretary, at 2315 Parkside Ave. Hatboro PA 19040.