Colonel Charles S., Raymondo, USAFR, passed away Wednesday, August 12, 2015 at his home in Tampa, Florida. Charles was devoted to his family and his friends. He served his country faithfully and honorably. He was born September 8, 1929 in Lakeland, Florida to Zannie Peeples and Angelo Raymondo. Charles began his military career at The Bolles School in Jackson-ville, Florida where he graduated as a Cadet Sargent in 1947. From Bolles, Charles attended the Citadel Military College of South Carolina graduating as 2nd Lt. Upon graduation, he was commis-sioned in the US Air Force where he served in the Korean War, active duty. After the war, he continued to serve in the USAF Reserves until his retire-ment in 1989. While in service, Charles received many awards and commen-dations including; the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, and the Outstanding Service Award. Charles also received ribbons for Outstanding Unit, National Defense, Korean Service, Air Force Longevity Service, Armed Force Service, Small Arms Expert and Service in the United Nations. By the end of his military career through his various achieve-ments he attained the rank of Full Bird Colonel. In addition to his accom-plished military career, Charles was very success-ful in his private life. He was appointed Chairman of Academy Advisory and Selection Committee for the 7th Congressional District by Representative Sam Gibbons; a member of the Reserve Officers Association, US Coast Guard Boating Safety and Seamanship, National Rifle Association, President and CEO of Cannon Music Stores, Director of the National Association of Music Merchants, Inc., active member of the Sertoma Club, member of the Insurance Commission, member of Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club, Tampa Yacht and Country Club and the Krewe of Sant’ Yago. Charles was proceeded in death by his parents and his sisters Betty Williams and Mary Elise Moritz. He is survived by his loving wife Theresa, children Michael (Valerie), James (Mary), Richard (Julie), Kathy VonStorch (Kirk), Maresa Russo (Andrew), Andrea Callison, Paul Puleo (Carol-Ann), grandchildren Michelle and Kayleigh Raymondo, Tony Cancio (Mandi), Drew and Clark Russo, Alyssa and Christopher Callison, Bella, Gina and Evan Puleo; nieces, nephews, and many dear friends. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his memory to LifePath Hos-pice or the American Can-cer Society. A Memorial Mass will be held Monday, August 17, 2015 at 1:30 PM at Christ the King Catholic Church, 821 S. Dale Mabry, Tampa, Florida 33609. The family will receive guests prior to Mass from 1-1:30 PM. Arrangements handled by Blount & Curry, 813-876-2421. –
Posted in: Tampa Bay Online
Posted on: 2015-08-15
Link to original obituary: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/tbo/obituary.aspx?n=charles-s-raymondo&pid=175509759&fhid=5875#sthash.vXxUtjFT.dpuf