CHARLES DILLON Obituary

Charles “Charlie” G. Dillon, 86, of Nelson Twp., OH, passed away with his loving family at his side on Tuesday, October 22, 2024. He was born October 17, 1938, in Warren, OH, to the late Homer and Garnet (nee Grigsby) Dillon.

He was raised in Champion, OH, and graduated from Champion High School. Charlie worked for Alden E. Stilson, Consulting Engineers, for most of his life. He was an accomplished surveyor. Charlie belonged to the Parkman Fire Dept. for 50 years. He enjoyed owning and showing his antique race cars. His favorite old car is a 1928 Model A Ford touring car that Chuck and Joanie road around in Warren, OH, the day they were married, and often the following years with their children.

Charlie will be deeply missed by his wife, Joan (nee White) Dillon, with whom he was blessed to share over 64 years of marriage; sons, Scott (Kim) Dillon, Bruce (Lisa) Dillon, and Dallas (Lisa) Dillon; grandchildren, Megan (George) Delancy, Kelly Harris, Sarah (Brian) Umbach, Joseph (Magda); 7 great grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; twin brother, William (Doris) Dillon, and sister, Joanne (Al) Bauman.

Parkman Fire Chief Mike Komandt reads scriptures.

Chuck Dillon is added to the Deceased Parkman Fire and Rescue Team Honor Plaque.

Scott Dillon reads the
Presentation of the Fire Ax

Parkman Assistant Fire Chief Chuck Dillon's 4201 Badge.

Parkman Fire Dale Komandt reads traditional fireman tributes.

The original Parkman Pumper created by Chuck Dillon was posted outside of the Parkman Community House to greet people.

Presentation of the Fire Ax

The fire ax has long been a symbol of the Fire Service.  It has, for generations, been a basic tool of the people who fight fires.  This history of this tool makes it a fitting emblem telling us that we are part of the old and precious tradition.

The fire ax is a special tool, distinctive in form, different from other axes.  Thus it reminds us that the Fire Service requires people to learn special skills to do their jobs.  Unless the members of the Fire Service practice and refine their skills, our service will be poor.  Let this ax remind us of these needs and symbolize our determination to contribute the best in us to help others and advance our noble tradition.

The fire ax is a means to an end.  It does not extinguish fires, but it enables people to extinguish fires.  It thereby teaches us that the Fire Service is a means to an end.  We are pledged to the service of others.  Our time, talent, and strength are given to build a better world.  The head of the ax penetrates close to the fire and recalls the dangers and risks we undertake to serve our fellowmen.

The axes are placed by two men, one an officer and one a fireman, to remind us that our work is a team effort in which cooperation - operation may be a matter of life and death.  The crossed axes reflect the cross of our Lord.  Thus they form a fitting memorial to all who sacrifice for the sake of others.  They bring to mind others who shared our lives and have died.  They point to the promises and hopes of faith, which reaffirm the value and the future of the servant life.  We cross these axes with the heads down, a fitting position for an instrument of peace, yet the handle reminds us to always be ready; ready to serve, ready to help,  and ready to give to any an honest account of our lives.