Charles Russell Hardwidge

Charles Russell Hardwidge, 96, of New Philadelphia died suddenly Saturday, February 6, 2010 at his home.A son of the late James and Clara (Miller) Hardwidge, Charles was born June 6, 1913 at Somerdale, Ohio.On November 27, 1943, Charles enlisted with the United States Navy. He honorably served his country during World War II until his discharge on November 27, 1945.Charles retired from the Tuscarawas County Road and Bridge Department as a heavy equipment operator after 37 years of service. He also owned and operated a part time excavating company.In his younger years, Charles was an avid fisherman and hunter. He enjoyed many vacations to Maine in order to fish and also went on many bear hunting expeditions to Canada. He will be remembered by his family as an excellent woodworker and mechanic as well.He is survived by his daughter, Gail Hardwidge of Mineral City; a granddaughter, Marsha (Brian) Whitlach of Mineral City; four great grandchildren, Kaelli Christian, Sara Rae, Olivia Marie and Keegan Russell Whitlach; two sisters, Sylvia Locker of Somerdale and Emma Myers of Dover and two brothers, Fred Hardwidge of Somerdale and Hughie (Norma) Hardwidge of Phoenix, Arizona.Charles was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Velma (Kollar) Hardwidge who passed away on October 5, 2001; an infant daughter, Charlotte Rae Hardwidge and three sisters, Flora Marie, Georgie and Tootsie.In keeping with Charles’ wishes there will be no public calling hours and cremation will take place through the care of Geib’s Tuscarawas Valley Crematory. A private family graveside service will be held in New Cumberland Cemetery at a later date.Contributions may be made in Charles’ memory to Hospice of Tuscarawas County, 201 West Third Street, Dover, OH 44622.