Charles Ray Buckalew

Charles Ray Buckalew, 72, of Parkersburg, West Virginia died at his home on Thursday, January 12, 2017. He was born February 6, 1944 in Wood County, West Virginia a son of the late Kelsie C. and Iona E. Williams Buckalew. Charles worked at Union Insulator and was a farmer who served in the United States Army from May 1963 until May of 1966. During this time he served in Vietnam; while there, in January of 1966, during an operation in Al Lo Valley, despite the heavy gun fire, great personal danger, and without regard for himself, he crossed enemy lines to retrieve a fallen soldier. For his service, he received the Army Commendation Medal for Heroism and two Purple Hearts during his tour. He is survived by one daughter, Tammy Bunner of Cedar Grove, West Virginia; one son, Charles R. Buckalew II (Terra) of Parkersburg; one sister, Betty Shreve (Fred) of Parkersburg; two granddaughters, and four grandsons. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Donna J. Hunt Buckalew, whom he married September 1967 and one brother, Kelsie Buckalew Jr. Out of respect for his wishes, no viewing or service will be held at this time. Cremation services are being provided by Lambert-Tatman Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2333 Pike St., south Parkersburg. The family would like to offer special thanks to family and friends who have supported us through this time and to Amedisys Hospice.