Charles Shank

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Charles Otis Shank, 80, of Joplin, Missouri, passed away peacefully in his home on Wednesday, September 25, 2024.
Charles was born in Joplin on February 10, 1944, to the late Homer “H.E.” and Opal Shank, and was raised alongside his sister and two brothers.

Early in his life, he began working for his dad in the family business, Shank Foods, and remained there for decades until 1986. He later finished his working career at Able Body building semi-truck cabs, where he retired in 2009.

In 1964, Charles married the love of his life, Gloria Erwin, who survives. They were wed at Forest Park Baptist Church in Joplin and, come November, would have been married for 60 years. From that union, they produced two wonderful children, Bryan and Jeannette.

Charles loved the Lord and spent many years glorifying Him through music. He shared the gospel through southern gospel quartet singing, church choir and many solos throughout the years. He also served as a Deacon and in the Church Library with Gloria at First Baptist Church in Joplin.

Preceding him in death are his parents, two siblings Marvin Shank and Norma Jean (Shank) Hankins, a daughter Jeannette Shank and a grandson Andrew Shank.

He is survived by his wife Gloria Shank of the home, son Bryan Shank and wife Dawn, brother Dwain Shank, four grandchildren: Aaron Shank, Mykayla Shank, Olivia Williams, and Melodye Williams, and many other extended family members.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Library of The First Baptist Church Joplin in care of the mortuary.

The funeral service is scheduled for 2:00 pm Monday, September 30, at First Baptist Church, 4128 Connecticut Ave, Joplin, Missouri. Family will receive friends and visitors from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm, Sunday September 29, at Mason-Woodard Chapel.

Arrangements under the direction of Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory – Joplin, Missouri.