Charles Howard Cress, age 89, a resident of Ft. Scott, Kansas commonly known as Charlie to his friends and loved ones, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 10, 2025, in Ft. Scott, Kansas. Born on July 5, 1936, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to the late Col. Howard C. Cress and Arnstina Cissna Cress, Charlie’s life was
marked by dedication to his family, his country, and his community. Charlie’s early years were spent in the heartland of America, where he developed a strong sense of patriotism and service. After completing high school, he followed this calling by enlisting in the United States Army in 1957. During his time in the service, he was
stationed primarily in Germany, where he met the love of his life, Gertie Konrad. Charlie and Gertie were united in marriage on October 22, 1960, in San Antonio, Texas, and cherished fifteen years together until Gertie’s untimely passing on September 15, 1975. Following his military service, Charlie began a long career with the United States Postal Service, where he worked diligently for twenty-seven years. Charlie attended both the First Christian Church and the First Presbyterian Church, where he found solace and fellowship. An avid history enthusiast, Charlie absolutely loved re-enacting wild west gunfights. He took great joy in participating
with the Plainsmen and the Border Creek Raiders re-enactment groups, sharing his passion for the Old West with others. His performances were not just a hobby but a way of connecting with people and keeping history alive. In addition to his love for re-enactment, Charlie was involved in his community. He volunteered his time with the Ft. Scott Pride Program and contributed to the betterment of the lives of many through his work at the Tri-Valley Developmental Center. His generosity and willingness to help others were hallmarks of his character. Charlie is survived by his son, Allan Cress of Ft. Scott, Kansas; his daughter, Ingrid Bohm of Germany; and his nephew, Jim, and niece, Patty. He was preceded
in death by his parents; his sister, Mary Lou Welch; and his half son, Karl Heinz.

Pastor Sarah Gengler will conduct a memorial service at 1:00 P.M. Tuesday, July 15th at the First Presbyterian Church. Burial will be in the Evergreen Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the American Cancer Society and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at
cheneywitt.com.