Charles A. Dever
Charles Ambrose Dever was born on September 20, 1915 to John Dever and Mary Ambrose Dever in Englewood, New Jersey. A proud graduate of Dwight Morrow High School in 1934, Charles excelled both academically and athletically, showcasing his leadership as captain of the county championship track team, earning four letters and a silver “E”, and earning distinction on the football field playing quarterback. His aspirations and intellect earned him a scholarship to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, a dream deferred by the harsh realities of the Depression. He would later attend Pace Institute.
During the next six years after graduating from high school he worked at odd jobs and at Lamont Corliss in New York City. On February 11, 1941, as the world plunged into the depths of war Charles was drafted into the Army initially serving in the 244th Coast Artillery where he was master plotter in the range section, qualified as marksman and first-class gunner. After volunteering for the Air Force, he was stationed at Hondo Air Force Base and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant Navigator. After being deployed overseas during World War II, he was assigned to the 8th Air force in England but was reassigned to the 9th in North Africa because of the heavy losses on the low-level Ploesti mission. In the 98th Group, 9th, 12th, and 15th Air Forces, he served as lead navigator on 16 missions, and he completed an astonishing 51 missions, navigating through peril and adversity with unparalleled bravery. His service as a navigator on a B-24 Bomber was nothing short of heroic. For his extraordinary service Charles was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, a testament to his valor, skill, and dedication. This honor, signifying exceptional heroism, ranks as the second highest medal in the Air Force, a symbol of his contributions to our nation’s freedom. He was also awarded 7 Air Medals, 10 Battle Stars, and additional commendations, reflecting his exceptional service and sacrifice.
After the war, Charles completed his commitment to his country as a radar navigator instructor, guiding the next generation of heroes. He married Ruth McCurdy on November 6th, 1944, and together they laid down roots in Wilmington, California, raising their daughters Kathleen and Suzanne amidst the peace he had fought so valiantly to secure. The family later moved to Fullerton, Ca., where they lived for 60 years. Ruth preceded Charles in death on March 6th, 2008.
Charles worked for Cheseboro Ponds company for many years. He also had a long career working for the postal service. He was a skilled woodworker, hand crafting much of the furniture in the family home. He enjoyed working on his cars, playing golf, and watching sports. He was known for doing his own thing and had a bit of a tough exterior. He didn’t talk much, but when he did, it was with profound significance. His laugh wasn’t heard often, but when it was, it was a cherished gem that reflected the true extent of his happiness. After their children were grown, Charles and Ruth loved to play golf together, traveling the world to play on some of the most prestigious and beautiful courses.
In 2019, Charles moved from the family home in Fullerton to Santa Barbara, Ca, to be close to family. During this time, he got regular visits from his daughter Kathy, and his granddaughters. He enjoyed these visits, sipping Manhattans and telling stories of his life growing up in New Jersey, his time in the war and the incredible things he had seen in his 108 years. His stories, a blend of history and personal reflection, were gifts that enriched the lives of those fortunate enough to hear them.
Charles Ambrose Dever passed away peacefully on January 8, 2024, leaving behind a legacy that spans the spectrums of bravery and humility. He is survived by Kathleen Snell and Suzanne Alejandre, six grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and three great great-grandchildren. As we bid farewell to Charles, we honor not just the true American hero who soared above the clouds but the man who walked among us with grace, sharing the lessons of a century’s journey. As we remember his life, we honor not only his remarkable achievements in service of his country but also the enduring impact of his legacy on those who knew him and on the freedoms we cherish today. Charles Ambrose Dever’s story is not just one of historical significance but a personal narrative of love, loss, and the quiet strength that defines true heroism. Memorial services will be held on Monday March 25, 2024, at 11:00am at Loma Vista Memorial Park in Fullerton, Ca., where Charles will be laid to rest next to the love of his life, his wife Ruth.