Charles Linden Parkyn, a proud United States Air Force veteran, devoted husband, beloved father, grandfather, brother, friend, and faithful servant of Christ, passed away peacefully at home on June 30, 2025, surrounded by family. He was 85 years old.

Born on November 4, 1939, in Mundelein, Illinois, Charles lived a life marked by dedication, generosity, quiet strength, and unwavering faith. After serving his country with honor in the U.S. Air Force, he began a long and fulfilling career in commercial aviation. He started with Eastern Airlines and, through a series of mergers and acquisitions, eventually retired from Delta Airlines.

Throughout his career, Charles held a variety of technical and hands-on roles. He worked on aircraft radios and autopilot mechanisms, served as a stock clerk, and became the go-to person for repairing or creating anything on board that required sewing—such as seat covers and curtains. It was through this work that his love for quilting began to take shape, eventually becoming a cherished personal hobby. Charles also took great pride in supporting others through his participation in the Workplace Drug and Alcohol Committee, where he compassionately helped guide coworkers toward treatment and recovery.

Charles was married to the love of his life, Sharon, for 61 years and one month. Their marriage was a beautiful example of love, partnership, and enduring commitment. Together, they raised a family rooted in compassion, service, deep mutual respect, and belief in the Lord Jesus Christ. Charles led by example, living out his faith through acts of kindness, humility, and quiet sacrifice.

A special thing he did for each of his grandchildren was making them a quilt upon their high school graduation—each one a personal gift stitched with care, love, and prayer. He also cherished riding in the golf cart with his grandchildren, often exploring new paths and turning simple rides into fun adventures they would always remember. Among his most treasured relationships was the special bond he shared with his granddaughter Hannah. Whether cruising together or simply enjoying quiet time, their connection was filled with joy and deep affection. He doted on her and took immense pride in her academic journey, never missing an opportunity to brag about her as she works toward her Ph.D.

One of the greatest joys of Charles's life was organizing and participating in airline golf tournaments in Hawaii. He poured his heart into planning these events and took immense pride in bringing people together through shared fun, fellowship, and competition. Hawaii held a special place in his heart, and the memories he created there were among those he spoke of most fondly throughout his life.

Charles was also deeply dedicated to serving his church community. He loved working in the kitchen, preparing special meals for church events, holidays, and gatherings. It brought him true joy to cook for others—whether it was a large crowd or a single plate—and he served every meal with love, humility, and purpose.

He is survived by his beloved wife Sharon; his daughters Amy Patten and her husband Jim, and Dana Disque and her husband Dion; four grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters Lynn and her husband Jack Vernon, and Diane and her husband Pete Johnson; and his brother Jack and his wife Jean Parkyn. All of them will forever cherish his warmth, wisdom, sense of humor, and steadfast faith.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents, William Trevor and Charlotte Arlene Parkyn; his sister Betty; his brothers Bill, Dan, and Ross; his grandson Garrick; and one great-grandchild. We rejoice knowing he is now at peace in the presence of his Savior and reunited with loved ones who have gone before.

A service to celebrate his life and honor the faith that sustained him will be held on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Pine Island, located at 5363 Avenue D, Bokeelia, Florida 33922.

Charles will be honored with interment at Sarasota National Cemetery on Monday, November 3, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.