Charles E. Axthelm passed away on March 18, 2022 at the age of 93. He was known to his loved ones as Ed, Dad, or Papa. Ed was a caring husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend.
Ed was born to Kathryn and Walter Axthelm in Marion, Ohio. He was a graduate of The Ohio State University (B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, NROTC) where he met his wife of 69 years, the late Peggy Axthelm.
Together, Ed and Peggy raised four children: Karl (Dede, dec.), Alan (Amy), Kathy, and the late Toby. Ed is survived by three children, his brother David (Nancy), seven grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.
Ed led a rich life full of adventure. As a teenager, he ran off for a summer and joined the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. He served in the US Navy for 30 years, including tours in the Korean War and exploration missions to Antarctica. He drove a school bus for the Fairfax County Schools for 15 years. Ed and Peggy traveled the world together. Between their travels and his service, Ed visited five continents.
Ed was an active member of Peace Lutheran Church, a member of the National Railway Historical Society, and an avid volunteer with Habitat for Humanity.
Donations in Ed’s honor can be made to Peace Lutheran Church or the DC chapter of the NRHS.
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