Ronceverte-Charles Krystynak, Sr., 79, passed away peacefully Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2016, at the Peyton Hospice House surrounded by his daughters, Mellissa and Bridgett.
Charlie, as most everyone knew him, was an amazing father, grandfather, brother and friend to all who encountered him. His smile was infectious and his sense of humor never wavered even in his last days. Charlie was an avid golfer and bowler for many years. He was the first to bowl a “300” in December of 1923 at the old bowling alley in Fairlea. Charlie even caddied for Sam Snead in his younger years. Charlie’s compassion to help others and organizations in need was endless. His donations to Penny Pitch, local EMS, police and schools were important to him. He was a humble man of kindness and pure generosity especially to his children, grandchildren and his beloved community. He loved West Virginia and was a true Mountaineer fan.
Charlie was born Aug. 31, 1937, in White Sulphur Springs, to Ted and Clara Belle Krystynak. He served in the United States Navy from January 1956 to November 1959 as an aircraft mechanic helper on the USS Champlain. Charlie worked several places during his life in West Virginia which include Kellwood, The Homestead, CSX Railroad, Department of Highways, The Greenbrier Resort and most recently owner and operator of The Midway Tavern in Caldwell for over 25 years. During his time at The Midway Charlie had the joy of watching and being part of Chan Witt’s climb to fame with visits from the show “That’s Incredible and PM Magazine.”
He was of Baptist faith, he loved attending his grandchildren’s events, playing golf, dancing, bowling, visiting casinos, and playing cards with friends. He was a member of the “Coffee Club” at Hardee’s for several years, former Lewisburg Elks member, Valley View Country Club member and a regular patron of The American Heritage Music Hall in Ronceverte where he loved to dance on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
Charlie was proceeded in death by his parents, Ted and Clara Belle Krystynak; the mother of his six children, Norma Chambliss; and grandson, Shane Krystynak.
He is survived by siblings, Edith May Horton of Deland, FL, Brenda Booth of Roanoke, VA and Charles Krystynak of Deland, FL and Patricia Ellis of Las Vegas, NV; children, Charles (Mary) Krystynak, Jr. of Buffalo, WV, Liz Harrison of Hot Springs, VA, Charlene (Paul) Shepherd of Staunton, VA, Darlene Krystynak of Nashville, TN, Mellissa (Brian) Krystynak of Ronceverte and Bridgett (Jay) King of Virginia Beach, VA; grandchildren, Brandon, Savannah, Marica, Alexis, Evan, Victoria, Gabbi, Sarah, Madeleine, Meredith, Ranger and Olivia; and four great-grandchildren.
Visitation for Charles was at Wallace & Wallace Funeral Home in Ronceverte on Saturday, Sept. 17 where Pastor Chad Smailes and Pastor Frank Fisher conducted services with military graveside burial immediately following at Greenbrier Memorial Gardens in Lewisburg.
Pallbearers were Victoria Krystynak, Brandon Krystynak, Jay King, Brian Bertke, Evan Boone and Billy DePriest.
In lieu of flowers one may make a charitable donation to the Peyton Hospice House in Fairlea, WV or to the American Heritage Music Hall in Ronceverte in memory of Charlie Krystynak.
The family would like to thank the amazing care given by the staff at the Peyton Hospice House to our father over the last four weeks. Your compassion and kindness shown allowed him to make his journey home in love, peace and comfort. We are forever grateful for your love and kindness.
Please send online condolences by visiting www.WallaceandWallaceFH.com.
