(Mar. 18, 2008)
World War II purple heart recipient Charles “Charlie” Evan Lambdin, 85, Powell, died at North Big Horn County Hospital March 18, 2008, after fighting cancer.
Charlie, to his friends, was born Nov. 20, 1922, in Danville, Kan., to Otto Lambdin and Bertha Smythisler.
Charlie graduated from high school in Carmi, Ill., and then joined the U.S. Navy. He served aboard the aircraft carrier, U.S.S. Bunker Hill when it was attacked by kamikazes. Charlie earned a purple heart when a piece of shrapnel nearly took his life.
Following service during World War II, Charlie moved to Powell. He married Myra “Billie” Lorena Hall and the couple spent 50 happy years together.
Charlie belonged to the Experimental Aircraft Club and loved to “play” on his computer.
Charlie is survived by his sisters, Ruth of Virginia; Lucille (Ned) LeBlanc of Louisiana; Betty (Ray) Collins of Virginia; sons Charles P. of Florida; George (Marian) Lambdin of Cody; six grandchildren and his beloved dog, Jake.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Billie; son, Craig, parents, Otto and Bertha; brothers, George; Thomas and Eugene.
Memorial services will be held at a later date.