Obituary of Johan Charles De Vente

Johan Charles (Charlie) deVente Charlie deVente, 92, died January 21, 2021. He was predeceased by his wife, Joyce; and survived by his two sons, Bruce (Ada) Willis and Mike Willis; grandchildren Brett (Erin), Heather, Bryan (died May 16, 2020) and Nathan; great-granddaughter Riley. Born September 2, 1928 in Amsterdam, Holland, Charlie lived there until moving to Geneva, Switzerland at age 8. With a growing threat of the war in Europe, the deVente family fled to the USA with the benevolent help of Thomas J. Watson, arriving June 10, 1940. He proudly became a US citizen January 1946, graduated from UE High School 1949, and earned an Associate in Applied Science from the State University of NY at Binghamton 1951. He enlisted in the US Airforce from 1951-1955, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant, serving in Lowry AFB, CO; Forbes AFB, KS; and three stations in Greenland, including Thule AFB at "the top of the world". He was discharged with honors, earning the National Defense Service and Good Conduct Medals. Charlie married Joyce (Fisher) Willis on November 25, 1961 and moved to Kimble Road, Vestal where they lived for almost 60 years. He joined Vestal United Methodist Church and attended weekly, serving as head usher for over 20 years. Charlie worked in IBM for over 30 years, experiencing the 'golden years' of Big Blue, retiring in 1990. He and his family had many good times at IBM Country Club. IBM has been a great blessing to the whole deVente family. The Boy Scouts of America was a passion for Charlie. He became the first Eagle Scout of Troop 211 Endwell in 1946, and gave back to Scouting for the rest of his life, serving in leadership positions for over 70 years and earning the highest award a council can give for volunteer service, The Silver Beaver. Charlie was lovingly devoted to his wife, Joyce. They traveled together, especially to Bermuda and Cape May. A talented oil painter, he loved birds, lighthouses, ocean scenes, and fancy old cars. He enjoyed golf and was on bowling leagues until age 91, even switching to his left hand after breaking his wrist. He enjoyed yardwork and many neighborhood walks with Joyce. Charlie lived a full and happy life, and will be dearly missed. A private memorial Service will be held at Vestal United Methodist Church at a future date. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be sent to Vestal UM Church at 328 Main Street, Vestal, NY 13850.