Charles D. Best “Charlie”, age 97, of The Villages, Florida, and formerly of Johnson City, New York, passed away on May 22, 2017. Born in Versailles, New York to Ernest and Helen (Freville) Best, he was the oldest of three children and was predeceased by his two siblings, Marcelle Corah and Frank Best.
Mr. Best was a graduate of Fredonia State and Purdue University, and was a Navy veteran serving in the Pacific during WWII. He retired from IBM in Owego, New York, where he worked as a mechanical engineer for 28 years. Prior to working for IBM, he was employed by General Electric in Schenectady, New York.
Charlie was predeceased by his loving wife, Mary Ellen, after 58 wonderful years together. He is survived by five children: David (Gloria) Best, Douglas (Renee) Best, Gloria (Richard) Sercu, Charlene (David) Green and Steven Best; seven grandchildren: Vanessa, Joyce, Theresa, Brian V., Trisha, Brian G. and Michael; two great grandchildren: Kobe and Abigail; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Charlie lived life to the fullest and enjoyed competitive sports and games, especially golf and lawn bowling. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
The family would like to thank a dear friend, Agnes Moran, for being such a loving and supportive companion to our Dad.
A graveside service will be held at Vestal Hills Cemetery at the family’s convenience.
