Charles Monroe Camper Sr., 89

HURLOCK, Md. - Charles Monroe Camper Sr., of Hurlock, departed this life Friday, Jan. 18, 2008, in Chesapeake Woods Center Nursing Home, Cambridge, after a short illness. He was 89.

Mr. Camper was born in Dorchester County on April 29, 1918, son of the late Charles E. Camper and Georgia Young Camper.

He was educated in the Dorchester County public schools. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1942, serving in the South Pacific during World War II.

Mr. Camper was honorably discharged in 1946. After his discharge, he was employed as a barber for a short time in Baltimore.

He returned home to Thompsontown, where he met and married Viola Mae Johnson, and from this union eight children were born.

Mr. Camper worked with his father for many years as a well driver and grave digger.

He was also employed with Acme Market Cannery, Hurlock, from which he retired in the early 1980s.

Mr. Camper was best known for his friendship and advice to young people. One would often find him giving rides to many, enjoying the view while patiently waiting for them.

Although he was unable to go out anymore, people would inquire about him.

Mr. Camper will be missed by many who knew and loved him.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by three sons, Reginald, Tyrone and Troy; and a daughter, Dorenda Camper.

Mr. Camper is survived by a daughter, Glaneice Camper of Hurlock; three sons, Maurice Camper of Hurlock, Gary Camper of Bridgeville, Del., and Charles Camper Jr. of Hurlock; a stepson, O'Donald Johnson of Baltimore; nine grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; two daughters-in-law, Veronica Camper of Bridgeville and Gloria Camper of Wye Mills; a special niece and nephew, Donald and Shirley Hatten of Thompsontown; a foster sister, Rose Gray of Pennsylvania; and several nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Thursday in Faith Community United Methodist Church, 509 Railroad Ave., East New Market, where friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday.

The Rev. Jonathan Whitney is officiating.

Interment will follow in Thompsontown Cemetery.

Arrangements by Henry Funeral Home.