Memorial
Charles K. Cannon, 89, of Cedar Rapids passed away on Sunday, February 1, 2015 at the Unity Point Inpatient Hospice Unit in Cedar Rapids—25 days short of his 90th birthday. A memorial service will be held 11:00 AM Thursday, February 5, 2015 at Christ Episcopal Church. Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 PM Wednesday at Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home. Entrusted with the arrangements is Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home.
He is survived by his loving wife Martha Cannon of Cedar Rapids; two daughters Mary Cannon of Cedar Rapids; Elizabeth (Jay Tillottson) Cannon of Columbus, Wisconsin; sister-in-law Claudia Cannon of California; two nephews Michael and Tommy Cannon; and many loving extended family members.
Charles K. Cannon was born February 26, 1925 in Michigan City, Indiana to Charles and Isabel (Kendrick) Cannon. He served honorably in the United State Army during WWII. He married Martha Jean Faragher on June 23, 1955 in Fairfield, Connecticut. Charles received his Bachelors and Ph.D. from Yale University. In 1956 he began his teaching career as an English Literature Professor at Coe College, specializing in Shakespeare. Before returning to Coe College, he taught at Drake University from 1965 to 1970. He retired as a full professor of English from Coe College in 1990.
Charlie was beloved by his students. He took a personal interest in them and gave them the support they needed to succeed. He traveled great distances—by bike across Maine, by foot up Mt. Washington, and by boat to many countries with Martha and his daughters.
Charlie had a dry sense of humor but underneath he had a tender and caring heart. He expressed himself beautifully in writing and always knew what to say. He touched many hearts throughout his life and will be deeply missed.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother William Cannon.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to the Unity Point Inpatient Hospice Unit: https://www.unitypoint.org/cedarrapids/embracing-life-give-to-the-inpatient-hospice-unit.aspx