Charles Loman Ralston, 90, of Eagle Street in Niles passed away at Lakeland Hospital in Niles on October 6, 2009.

Charlie was born on January 20, 1919 to the late Alfred and Frona (Gentry) Ralston in Shady Grove, Tennessee. He was one of 6 children in the Ralston household.

Charlie was a member of the Civilian Conservation Corp. (CCC) when he was drafted to proudly serve our country in the United States Army during World War II. After being wounded in combat he returned home and wed the love of his life, Hazel Mae Oest, at a ceremony in Niles on December 1, 1944. Together they have 2 wonderful children.

Charlie retired from Midwest Aluminum after 24 years of happily putting siding and doors on houses in Michigan and Indiana. After he retired Charlie spent much of his time outdoors hunting or fishing but also enjoyed his bowling team.

He is preceded in death by his parents and brothers Leonard, Lillard, Hobart and Floyd Ralston.

Charlie is survived by his wonderful wife of nearly 65 years, Hazel, Sons John (Cheryl) Ralston of Niles and Jeffrey (Tracy) Ralston of Niles, 5 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren with one on the way and a brother Haskell Ralston of Kansas.

In keeping with Charlie’s wishes he has been cremated and a private family burial will take place at Mission Hills Memorial Gardens.

Memorial donations may be made in Charlie’s memory to St. Paul Lutheran Church located at 1340 Sycamore Street in Niles.

Condolences, photos and memories may be left for the family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services and Mission Hills Memorial Chapel, both of Niles.