George H. Charno Obituary (2006) - Overland Park, Kansas

George H. Charno, Jr., died peacefully at his home in the early morning hours of July 14, 2006 surrounded by family. A celebration of his life will take place at 1:00pm Sunday, July 16, at The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah, 12320 Nall Avenue, Overland Park, KS. The family suggests contributions to Academie Lafayette, 6903 Oak St., Kansas City, MO 64113; St. Peter’s School, 6400 Charlotte, Kansas City, MO 64131 or a charity of one’s choice. George was born on September 20, 1917 in Omaha, NE. He was preceded in death by his parents, George H. Charno, Sr. and Jennie Charno and his sister, Avis Charno Berman. He graduated from Paseo High School and in 1938 at age 20, George received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Kansas City (now UMKC). In 1941, George entered the United States Naval Training Program and in 1942 was commissioned a naval aviator. In 1942 George flew navy patrol bombers in 30 missions from England to Western Europe. In 1943 he found his way back to his base after being forced to abort a mission and land by parachute in darkness. In 1945 George flew 30 more missions from the island of Iwo Jima in the Western Pacific. The United States Navy commissioned George a Captain, awarded him two Navy Distinguished Flying Crosses and five air medals. Upon returning to civilian life in 1946, George entered Georgetown Law School where he graduated with honors and became a member of the District of Columbia Bar. In 1947, George was admitted to the practice of law in Missouri and joined his father in the firm of Charno and Charno. In 1959, the firm merged into Tucker, Charno, Willens, Jouras and Tucker. For many years, George was the campaign treasurer for Congressman Richard Bolling. In 1983, George retired from the practice of law but kept his office under the firm name of Charno and Jouras. Known for his intellect and wit until his death, George, a voracious reader, met every requirement of an educated mind. From 1959 to 1963, George served on the City Plan Commission under Mayor H. Roe Bartle. In 1963, the Boy Scouts of America awarded George one of the highest honors scouting offers, the Silver Beaver award. In 1963, the Tribe of Mic-O-Say on the H. Roe Bartle Scout Reservation, presented George the highest rank awarded to an adult scout volunteer, that of Honorary Chieftain. George is survived by his devoted wife, Harriett; son Steve Charno and his wife Melody; daughter Jennifer Nelson and her husband Tom; three granddaughters, Elspeth Charno, Audrey and Claire Nelson. The family wishes to give special thanks to Melinda Reedy and American Companion Care.