Charles E. Prettyman

Charles Eugene Prettyman At some point in our lives, loss is something we will all have to deal with. Whether it's a loss of family or loss of a special friend, it doesn't get any worse than losing someone you really care about. Charles Eugene Prettyman 76, of Elmira, N.Y. went to be with the Lord on March 16,2015 and was greeted by his mother, Ethel Holmes Prettyman. He was born on July 31, 1938 to Leroy and Ethel Holmes Prettyman. He graduated from EFA and was a valued teammate who played with many notable athletes, including his friend, Ernie Davis, in football, basketball and baseball and received many honors. He was voted "Lineman of the Year", inducted in The Chemung County Sports Hall of Fame and also was inducted into NYS Section IV Hall of Fame for his outstanding achievements in athletics. He continued to play football at Cortland University where he graduated with a Bachelors Degree, received his Masters Degree from Elmira College, and his Administrative Degree from Cortland. Chuck's greatest joy was his family. He was a loving husband, wonderful father, and special grandfather. He was called many names, "Coach", Charlie or Chuck. To others, he was "friend" and to a special two he was their brother. He was a true gentlemen in every sense. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army and returned home to begin his teaching career. He taught Science at Booth and Ernie Davis Schools for 20 years and was the Assistant Principal at Ernie Davis and EFA for 17 years. Chuck is survived by his loving wife and best friend, Bea Mary, adored children, Amanda /Nsimba Mawete of Alanta, Ga., Cheryl Prettyman of Alanta, Ga., Deborah/Dewayne Wright, of Elmira, NY, Marse' /Michael Mowrer, of Columbus, Ind., Robert A.Piper II, of Charlotte, N. C . and Jay B. Piper of Rochester, N.Y. and six grandchildren. His sister, Gail Prettyman of Elmira, N.Y. and brother, Leroy (Skilly)/Julie Prettyman of Endwell, NY. and many nieces and nephews. If someone were to ask this family why we are so proud of him, we would have so many reasons. But here is just a few. His caring manner with all kids. His sacrificing way. He knew life's priorities and lived it day to day. His time to be that "family man" is what we most admired and sometimes we forgot to tell him how very much that meant to us, but we all realized that he was a man of rare quality. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Mary (Bennett) Prettyman, and his mother, Ethel Prettyman. He fought cancer with strength, grace, and dignity and was a true warrior to the end. Friends are invited to call at Olthof Funeral Home, Inc. 1050 Pennsylvania Avenue on Saturday, March 21, 2015 from 1 PM to 3 PM with funeral and committal services there at 3 PM. Deacon George Welch will officiate. Followed by military honors accorded at the funeral home. Interment will be held at Woodlawn Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Senior Notebook, Dick Davies 93 Prospect Rd., Horseheads, NY 14845 and Care First (Hospice), 3805 Meads Creek Rd., Painted Post, NY 14870. Chuck's guestbook can be signed in obituaries at www.olthof.com.