Charles "Raleigh" Hesley

Charles "Raleigh" Hesley, 85, of Britt passed away Tuesday, December 20, 2005 at Westview Care Center in Britt.

Raleigh, the son of Harold and Olga Henrietta "Hattie" (Sonerholm) Hesley, was born March 31, 1920, in Britt, Iowa.  He was raised in Britt and attended Britt schools.

On October 7, 1941, Raleigh enlisted in the United States Army and served his country for almost four years.  A very decorated soldier, Raleigh received the American Defense Service Ribbon, European-African-Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon with one Bronze Battle Star, Asiatic Pacific Theater Ribbon with one Bronze Battle Star, Service Stripe and four Overseas Service Bars.  Following his discharge in 1945, Raleigh returned to Britt.

On March 3, 1948, Raleigh married Bertha Pannkuk in Buffalo Center.  The couple made their home in Britt where Raleigh was employed at Fullerton Lumber Company, Artes Produce and then Woodford-Wheeler Company, retiring in August of 1987.

Raleigh had a great sense of humor.  He loved spending time with his family and friends and especially his grandchildren.  He enjoyed golfing, fishing, playing cards and watching baseball.  He also enjoyed going to Wyoming and visiting the mountains.

Raleigh was a member of the Britt United Methodist Church, Britt Fire Department, VFW and American Legion.

Raleigh is survived by two daughters: Beverly Malek and husband, Duane of Britt, Sue Haddix and husband, David of Gillette, Wyoming; two sons: Dale Hesley and wife, Linda of Britt, Steve Hesley and wife, Giovanna of Oracle, Arizona; six grandchildren: Jason (Amy), Jeremy, Jennifer (Mike), Nick, Tyler, Dylan; great-granddaughter, Taylor; sister, Christa; Bredberg of Blue Earth, Minnesota; numerous nieces, nephews and other family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Bertha in 1987; infant daughter, Pamela; four brothers: Jerry, Maitland, Richard and Thomas.