Charles “Charlie” Lewis Raven

Born in Jamestown NY to George L. and Margaret L (Fields) Raven on May 13, 1952, and a 1970 graduate of Sherman High School, he had remained an avid Wildcats fan. Being a great champion of sports and music he has devoted a large part of his time to cheering on and mentoring youth in the history and the importance of both.

Charlie is survived by his loving companion, Luanne Elder of Westfield, N.Y.; his nephews and niece: Jeremiah (Molly Brown) Raven of Clymer, N.Y., Jason (Soraya) Raven of Florida, Beth Ann (John) “Tabor” Kaminski and Robert (Annie) Tabor, all of Virginia; his grandson, Jacob (Kayla Ames) Duckworth of Sherman, N.Y. and his step-daughter, Heather Roper, and her son Austin of Georgia. Also dear to his heart were his great-nieces and nephews: Casey (Joel) Justice, Rebecca Raven, Howard, Michael and Jason William Raven and Alex, Zachary and Spencer Tabor. Along with many dear cousins and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his beloved brother and sister-in-law, Howard and Becky Raven, who we are sure were waiting to welcome him home with open arms and a great celebration.

Charlie was an accomplished executive chef having studied at both The Culinary Institute of America and Johnson of Wales University. Over his 40 years in his field, Charlie had lived life to its fullest running kitchens of many world class hotels and restaurants and expressing himself through his culinary expertise and receiving many accolades all over the country.

He lived to share his love through food and although he spent most of his time in the kitchen, his heart swelled hearing the joy and laughter of everyone enjoying it family, friend or stranger. Most recently he thoroughly enjoyed his summers feeding friends and guests at Brushwood Folklore Center.

In true Raven tradition Charlie was a friend to many and family to many more. Always with a kind word or teasing chide. Willing at the drop of a hat to help anyone with whatever was needed. Anyone that knew Charlie knew he always had a story to tell, whether it was a humorous anecdote or amusing life lesson he was rarely at a loss for just the right thing tosay. “That’s for certain!”

He loved his country and those who served held a special place in his heart. He is an active auxiliary member of Mayville Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8647 and the Sons of Liberty Riders. Charlie had the distinction of playing TAPS for over 340 veteran funerals in the last five years, as part of his membership of Bugles Across America and TAPS for Veterans. He had been honored by the request to play at Arlington National Cemetery, Washington, D.C., for the 150th anniversary of Taps and also received the special distinction to be one of only 200 asked to play at the 50th anniversary of President John F. Kennedy’s death. Every evening within the Village of Sherman, his rendition of TAPS among other hymns and military anthems could be heard just at sunset.

Even when away from home he was sure to find time and a place to honor, through music, those who gave all.

Although Charlie will be missed immensely by those left behind. We know he is with the loved ones that have passed before and is reveling in being able to share laughter and memories with them again.

Flowers gratefully declined. Memorial contributions in Charlie’s memory may be made to The Sherman Community Church, 109 Church St., Sherman, NY 14781, or the Color Guard at the Mayville Veterans of Foreign Wars, 10 Memorial Drive, Mayville, NY 14757.

Calls may be made Saturday, Dec. 15, 2018, from 9-11 a.m., at the Sherman Community Church, 109 Church St., Sherman, N.Y., where a memorial service will follow at 11 a.m. A private burial will take place at the Mina Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements by Spitzer Funeral Home.