Charles Stribling

(From Parker Mortuary)

Charles Stribling, age 85, Joplin, passed away on Saturday, June 4, 2016 at Freeman West after a sudden illness.

Charles was born June 5, 1930 in Monett, Missouri, son of the late Fred and Katheryn Stribling. He graduated from Pierce City High School, then moved to Wenatchee, Washington to work for Pacific Fruit Company for several years. Afterward he moved to Monett, Missouri and there he met the love of his life, Sharon. Together they had five daughters whom they called their angels. He graduated from Pittsburg State University with a degree in business education. He taught high school at Memorial High School, as well as Parkwood High School for 25 years, until his retirement in 1990. He and Sharon also ran an auto repair and parts business, Stribling Rebuilders, for many years. In addition they bought and sold real estate. During those years, he and Sharon took their daughters on many summer vacations traveling throughout the country.

After his retirement, they travelled frequently out west and to south Texas where he and Sharon formed Stribling's Ramblin' River Band. In doing so, they made many lifelong friends over the years. The devastating tornado of 2011 destroyed the entire home and business of 50 years, but the family was blessed that no injuries were sustained. They relocated in Joplin, and continued their passion for country music until his passing.

Charles is survived by his precious wife of nearly 60 years, Sharon; daughters, Linda Frazier and husband Danny of Joplin, Joni Larson ad husband Darrell of Joplin, Connie Harmon and husband Rodney of Joplin, Jackie Snyder and husband Steve of Monument, Colorado, and Cindy Cure of Joplin; eight grandchildren, Chris Brown, Jarrad Parise, Travis Rowe, Carmen Coons, Jeremy Harmon, Angie Harmon, Jack Snyder, Amber Cure; four great-grandchildren, Devin Rowe, Autumn Rowe, Kaiden Seaman, Britten Seaman; a brother, Bob Stribling of Monett, Missouri.

His wife and family were the loves of his life, and he spent every waking moment guiding them and showing his love.

Private family services will be held at a later date with entombment in Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery with Rodney Harmon, Kevin Cure, Steve Snyder, Darrell Larson, Danny Frazier, Jeremy Harmon and Travis Rowe serving as pallbearers.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.