Charles Martin Kilbourn Sr.

Charles Martin Kilbourn, Sr., 78, passed away Saturday, January 13th, at Valley Baptist Medical Center.  Charles was born April 6, 1939 to Frank and Ruby Kilbourn, and was a life-long resident of Harlingen.

Charles’ first love was his wife LaRue.  Married in 1957, Charles and LaRue were devoted husband and wife for more than 60 years.

Charles’ began working at Tri-Pak Machinery while still in high school.  His career with Tri-Pak ultimately spanned 57 years, including more than 23 years as Vice President.

In 1961 Charles joined the United States Army where he served with the Engineering Topo Corps.  Following training and a certification in Surveying, he traveled overseas and surveyed desert areas of Libya and Iran.

In addition to his working career, Charles had a great love of cattle farming, and raised cattle varieties including Charolais and Chianina throughout his life.   Charles was also a long-time board member of the East Rio Hondo Water Supply Company, where he served most recently as President.

Charles is survived by his loving wife LaRue; son Charles (Chuck) and wife Kim of Harlingen; son Royce and husband Karl Staatz of Cranston, Rhode Island; grandchildren Kali Wallenta of Houston, Cashay Engineer of Harlingen, and Charles Kilbourn III of Harlingen; great-grandchild Abigail Engineer of Harlingen; sisters Elaine Grayson of Port Isabel and Norma Fay Reis of Harlingen; numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews; and countless lifelong friends.

Visitation will be held Thursday, January 18th from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. with family present from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the funeral home.

Funeral service will be held Friday, January 19th, 11a.m., at Buck Ashcraft Funeral Home with Pastor Scott Floyd officiating.  Burial will be private.

You are invited to sign the guestbook or share a memory at www.buckashcraft.com.

Arrangements are with Buck Ashcraft Funeral Home.