Pontious, Charles Edward Aug. 25, 1928 - Nov. 19, 2015 Charles Edward Pontious, known as Chuck or Chick to his friends and family, died peacefully during the morning of Thursday 11/19/2015 after a year of declining health. He was born on August 25, 1928 in Villa Grove, Illinois. After serving in the occupation of Japan, stationed in Kobe, he graduated from the University of Illinois with a degree in electronics. He then married his high school sweetheart, Wilma Wise. Together they started a new life and family in the Washington, DC area where Chick was employed by the Naval Research Lab. He was an early employee of NASA where he eventually rose to the role of Deputy Director of Research Electronics. He retired from NASA in 1982. He and Wilma moved to Venice in 1985 and enjoyed a vigorous and happy retirement together, frequently traveling the world with groups of close friends. In Venice, he was elected President of Jacaranda West Country Club, until he got the hang of really being retired. Chick was a devoted father and husband, who never knew a stranger. He loved his God, his family, his country, and Wilma's pies. He lived a life of quiet service, volunteering at Jacaranda Public Library. He was active at Christ United Methodist Church in Venice designing and building the memorial garden, serving as head usher and running the grounds keeping crew until shortly before his death. He donated many gallons of blood during his life. As was his style, he didn't seek recognition for his many sacrifices for others. He is survived by his daughter Debby Cusick, son Charles William Pontious, his grandchildren Megan and Rich Vogel, Laura Pontious, a great grandchild, Taylor Vogel, his special friend Penny Gradert, Barry Gradert, and many other loved ones. He is preceded in death by his wife of 65 years Wilma, grandson Aaron Pontious, and his siblings Barbara, Richard, and Robert. Funeral Services will be held at Christ United Methodist Church in Venice on Wed. 11/25 at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his memory to Community Haven for Adults and Children with Disabilities Inc. 4405 Desoto Rd Sarasota, FL 34235.