Charles R. Black, Sr.

Complications from Alzheimer's disease brought an end to the life of Charles R. Black Sr., 88, of Washington. He died peacefully Wednesday, August 3, 2016, in Transitions Healthcare, South Strabane Township. He was under the loving care of Amedisys Hospice for many months. Mr. Black's life journey began as the eldest of four children. He was born May 23, 1928, in Brenizer, a son of Merle E. and Edith Gower Black. After moving to Western Pennsylvania, he attended grade school in a one-room schoolhouse. He graduated from Jefferson High School. After spending two years in the U.S. Army, he studied business at what is now Robert Morris University. Mr. Black spent his entire career with Campbell's Stainless and Chartiers Supply Corp., both divisions of Camalloy Inc. After retirement, he spent many years with Salvation Army, from where he received a blood award and fire award for outstanding service. He was also a member and past president of Rotary Club and a Paul Harris Award recipient. Mr. Black, also known as "Dick," was an avid reader and sports fan. He loved sailing, traveling and being "Pap" to his seven grandchildren. In 1950, he married Mona J. Balsinger, who survives. Surviving, in addition to his wife, are two sons, David "Bill" Black (Rosalind) of Shenandoah Junction, W.Va., and James Black of Washington; a daughter-in-law, Toni Black of Pittsburgh; seven grandchildren, Sara, Sean, Jessie, Regina, Alex, Olivia and Jacob "J.T." Black; two sisters, Barbara Solensky (John) and Judy Cook (Joe); a brother, Rick Black; and many nieces, nephews, sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law. Deceased is a son, Charles R. Black Jr., who died July 24, 2016. Friends will be welcome from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday and 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., the time of service, Monday, August 8, in William G. Neal Funeral Homes Ltd., 925 Allison Avenue, Washington, with Pastor Rick Bruckner officiating. Entombment will follow in Washington Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Amedisys Hospice or Alzheimer's Foundation.