O. Waggoner

CHESHIRE - O. Charles Waggoner, Sr., 88, died peacefully at his home on October 7, 2011, surrounded by his family.

Born on October 2, 1923, in Salisbury, NC, he was the son of James and Julia May Waggoner. He attended Boyden High School and graduated from Catawba College in 1944 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physics.

Charlie joined the Army in 1944 and completed specialized training at the University of Connecticut in Storrs. While stationed at the University of Connecticut, he met his future wife, Lois (Breyer). Charlie served his country in Japan and the Philippines during World War II. Because of his music ability, Charlie was selected to play the baritone horn in the Army Marching Band during the occupation of Japan and regularly performed for the high command, including then-General Eisenhower. Upon honorable discharge from the Army, Charlie and Lois were married at St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Cheshire on July 12, 1947 and were blessed with 64 years of marriage.

In 1950, WagLee Farm began operation under the direction of Charlie and his father-in-law, Leland Breyer. Charlie is fondly remembered by his former customers as the "Egg Man" and he had a delivery route that covered much of New Haven County. Distinguished customers included the Oakdale Tavern and Victor Borge. In 1960, WagLee Farm ceased operations and Charlie went to work for the Southern New England Telephone Company as a field engineer, where he remained a faithful employee until his retirement in 1982.

Charlie was active in many community activities. He was a member of the Cheshire Rotary Club where he served as President for one year, as well as taking on other leadership roles. He also coached Little League and was a Leader of Boy Scout Troop 92. He was an avid golfer and a member of the Timberland Men's Golf League for several years, as well as the Men's Golf League at Monterrey Yacht & Country Club in Stuart Florida where he spent winters. He was an active member of St. Peter's Episcopal Church for almost 65 years where he taught Sunday school.

Besides his wife, Lois, he is survived by a son and daughter-in-law, Charlie and Carolyn (Furtak) Waggoner of Cheshire, a daughter and son-in law, Pam Waggoner and David Nastasia of Georgetown, MA, a daughter and son-in-law, Cindy and Bill Eaton of Phoenix, MD, and a daughter and son-in-law, Laura Lee and Bob Petrus, of Mansfield , CT, 8 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, a sister, Helen Michael of Salisbury, NC, a brother, William Waggoner, Sr. of Charlotte, NC, a brother, Julius Waggoner of Salisbury, NC, and his loving caregiver, Nina Rozdoboudko. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, James Waggoner, Jr., and his sister, Mary Lena Strayhorne.

A memorial service will be held on October 15, 2011 at St. Peter's Episcopal Church, 59 Main Street, Cheshire, Connecticut at 11 a.m. Burial will be held at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Peter's Church Memorial Fund, 59 Main St., Cheshire, CT 06410. The Alderson Funeral Home of Cheshire is assisting with arrangements.