Charles E. Lash

Charles E. Lash, a farmer and lifelong Custer City resident, died at his home Dec. 25, 2015 after a prolonged illness. He was 85. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 29 in the Kiesau Memorial Chapel in Clinton, officiated by Daniel Mosburg. The burial will conclude in the Custer City Masonic Cemetery with graveside services under the direction of the Kiesau-Lee Funeral Home (weather permitting). Charles Edward Lash was born Aug. 29, 1930 to Emmor Lash and Anna (Deely) Lash in Custer City, Okla. He attended school in Custer City, where he graduated in 1948. His father died when he was 15, leaving Charles to take over the farming and ranching operation to support his mother and sister. He married Peggy Ann Bourlier on Dec. 26, 1947 in Wheeler, Texas. They made their home just outside of Custer City, where he continued farming and ranching. Charles was a member of the Young Farmers of America, and he loved farming and the outdoors. He planted an apple orchard near his home in memory of his grandfather, George Lash, who taught him about trees and had always wanted an orchard. Charles enjoyed watching the deer, humming birds and other animals who frequented feeders placed near his home until the time of his passing. With a passion for learning that lasted throughout his life, Charles spent much time studying the history of Western Oklahoma, as well as his family's history. He was an avid reader, and he enjoyed collecting coins and Native American art and artifacts. Charles served as a board member for the Custer Farmer's Co-Op. He was a member of the First Christian Church in Custer City, and a proud member of the Custer City community. He loved jokes, and was quite a prankster. Charles also enjoyed music, and, above all, spending time with his family. Charles is survived by two daughters: Charleen Jantz, of Weatherford, and Sheila Ferrell and her husband, Mickey, also of Weatherford. He is survived by a sister, Shirley Ann Lash, of Grove, Okla. Charles is also survived by three grandchildren: Chad Friesen, and his wife, Kellie, of South Orange, N.J.; Chris Clark, of Arlington, Texas; and Matt Miller, and his wife, Aleesha, of Custer City. He is also survived by three great-grandsons: Jacob Miller, Connor Miller and Mason Miller. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to the Custer City Volunteer Fire Department.