Obituary of Charles Marlow

Charles “Ken” Marlow, 74, of Iowa City passed away July 23rd, 2016, in Mechanicsburg, PA while returning from vacation with his wife. Charles Kenneth Marlow was born October 27, 1941, in Port St. Joe, Florida; son of Charles Franklin and Pearl Maryellen (Graham) Marlow. He married Eddi Spear on November 23, 1975, in Washington state. Ken served 24 years in the US Navy, retiring as a Senior Chief, after a proud and fulfilling career specializing in anti-sub warfare, serving in the pacific area of operations. Twelve years after retirement, he decided he needed another career and obtained his BSN from University of Tennessee, Memphis, which allowed him to start a nursing career at St. Jude’s Childrens Research Hospital. Ken always enjoyed teaching and in later years, was able to teach LPN courses, both in Iowa and Tennessee. When he wasn’t at work, teaching or traveling; he enjoyed time with his family and grandchildren, whether supporting them at their music and sporting events, or trying to out-fish one another in the pond, he loved Eddi, his children and his grandchildren whole-heartedly! Ken was also a believer in his Lord and tried his best to live every day, as a Christian, and active member of Grace Fellowship Church. His family includes his wife, Eddi; children, Kristal Gibson (Craig) of Iowa City, Robert J. Marlow (Liz) of Germantown, TN, Barbara Vassar, Terri Marlow and Chuck Marlow; his grandchildren; brother, Robert Marlow (Cathy) and sister, Lynn Coble (Tom) all of Tennessee. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Jim Marlow. Cremation services were provided in Pennsylvania. A graveside service with military honors will be held at Rock Island National Cemetery on Monday, August 8th at 10 a.m. Those wanting to attend the services at Rock Island, need to gather at the Gay & Ciha Funeral Home by 8:40 a.m., as we will travel to the cemetery in procession. Following those services there will be a gathering for family and friends from 12-2 p.m. Monday at the Environmental Education Center, 2401 Scott Blvd, Iowa City where a light meal will be served. If you are unable to attend service in Rock Island, please feel welcome to attend the local gathering. Memorials in Ken’s name may be made to St. Jude’s Childrens Research Hospital.