Obituary of Charles Gitsham

CM/Sgt. Charles G. Gitsham Jr. Ret. NY ANG, 82, died suddenly Friday February 17, 2012. He was born at Ellis Hospital September 13, 1929 the son of the late Charles Sr., and Helen (Garling) Gitsham and graduated from Nott Terrace High School, class of 1947. He worked for the General Electric Company, Bldg. 23, Avionics Section from 1948 to August 1950. Chuck joined the 139th Fighter Interceptor Squadron, Schenectady County Airport, February 14, 1949 as a guardsman (private rank). He went to work as a military and civilian aircraft maintenance technician in October of 1950. He had 38 years of service with the 109th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, Stratton Air National Guard Base; attended USAF/ANG Aircraft Maintenance School with courses and supervisory training throughout his career. Chuck attained the rank of chief master sergeant E and retired as supervisor of the 109th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, quality assurance section. He took a break until August 1993 and went to work, part time, for the 1st National Bank of Scotia, facility maintenance section at Glenville and Niskayuna Branches. Most of his duties were outdoors in all kinds of weather. You probably have seen him around. He enjoyed his time and the people at 1st National, he always said he had better hours than the managers. Chuck is survived by his daughter, Kathy (Joe) Cusano; and son, Charles D. (Tammey) Gitsham; sister, Claire (Don) Best; grandson and best pal, Steve (Sara) Cusano; sister-in-law, Barbara Gitsham; several nieces and nephews and longtime companion, Pat Kennedy. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his best friend and wife of 45 years, Elaine (Dingman) Gitsham. The funeral service will be held Tuesday 7 p.m. at the Daly Funeral Home, 242 McClellan St., Schenectady. Calling hours will precede the service from 5 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be private at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to City Mission of Schenectady, P O Box 760, Schenectady, NY 12301-9965.