Charlie Dickinson

Charles David Dickinson, son of the late Charles William and Lola Elizabeth (Richart) Dickinson, was born on September 11, 1950, in Lebanon, MO. He departed this life, at the age of 75, on May 21, 2026, at Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital (VA) in Columbia, MO.

At thirteen, Charlie moved to his family’s dairy farm in Hartville, MO. He graduated from Hartville High School in 1968 shortly before he was drafted into the United States Army to serve as a paratrooper in the 101st Airborne Division in Vietnam. After returning from Vietnam, Charlie went to work at Lowe Boats in Lebanon, MO, where he later retired from.

On December 21, 1974, he married Martha Bacon. They had two sons and a daughter.

Charlie was a pillar in the Hartville community. He was a member of Elk Creek Baptist Church, an avid supporter of HHS sports and academic programs, and an active member of many local organizations. Charlie was also the proud third baseman of the community softball team beginning in the 1970s. His team played all over the area and even competed in the state tournament on multiple occasions.

Charlie dedicated much of his life to serving fellow veterans. He was an active member of both the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars. He advocated for and assisted veterans with obtaining their service benefits and placed flags on hundreds of graves each year to honor their legacy. He was a champion for veterans’ rights in both Jefferson City, MO, and Washington, D.C. for which he received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the VFW.

Charlie was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; his daughter, Sarah Beth; two sisters, Judy “Cathy” Dickinson and Pamela Dickinson; his father and mother-in-law, Melvin and Marie Bacon; and his brother-in-law, David Bacon.

He is survived by his sons, David Dickinson and wife, Erin, and Chuck Dickinson; his grandchildren, Megan James, Gavin Scurlock and wife, Ashley, Bryna Scurlock, and Claire Dickinson; his great-granddaughter, Hazel Scurlock-Tracy; his siblings, William “Eddie” Dickinson and wife, Ann, Kenneth “Kenny” Dickinson and wife, Linda, Myrna Wakefield and husband, Wendell, and Allen Dickinson and wife, Glynda. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and close friends who will miss him greatly.

Charlie was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. His influence spans so far and wide, not one of us will truly understand the magnitude of his impact, but we’ll cherish the opportunity to have known him personally. He is already missed by those who love him.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Hartville Lions Club building fund. Contributions can be dropped off in person to Craig-Hurtt Funeral Home, Hartville, or by mail: P.O. Box 236, Hartville, Missouri, 65667.