Charles Wesley Dorton, Jr., a beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at Brookside Assisted Living in Overbrook, Kansas. He was 92 years old.
Born on April 6, 1932, in Russell, Virginia, to Charles Wesley, Sr., and Mattielou Dorton (née Perry), Charles married his wife, Laura E. Moeller, in 1954 in Topeka, Kansas. Their love story began on the dance floor, where Charles’ passion for dancing first caught Laura’s eye. Together they had five children, five grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Laura passed away on March 2, 1980.
Charles proudly served his country as a staff sergeant in the United States Air Force before earning his bachelor’s degree from Emporia State University (formerly known as the Kansas State Teachers College). He spent his career working as an AAL Insurance Agent.
His favorite pastimes include hunting, fishing, and spending time outdoors. Though Charles could be stubborn and ornery, he was also lighthearted and playful, keeping everyone on their toes. His family will fondly remember him for his keen sense of humor, his colorful stories and his deep abiding love of ice cream.
Charles is survived by four of his children who carry forward his legacy of love and resilience: Denise Beason of Topeka, Kansas, and her daughters, Ashley and Laura Beason, along with Charles’ great-grandchildren, Margaret, Blythe, and Rosamond Manes, and Newton Tyler; Keith Dorton of Falls, Pennsylvania, and his children, Jessica and Kyle Dorton; Kevin Dorton of Glendale, California, and Kevin’s son Wesley Dorton; and Angela Lewis of Scottsdale, Arizona. Charles was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Laura, and his beloved son Craig Dorton.
In lieu of a funeral service, Charles bequeathed his body to the University of Kansas Medical Center for medical research and education. Though no formal services are planned, Charles’ memory will be celebrated in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
May he rest in peace, reunited with those who went before him.
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