Charles E. Rose

Charles E. Rose, 97, of Union City, PA, left us peacefully on March 17, 2026, at his home. Born on September 17, 1928, in Union City, he was the son of John and Letha Wolford Rose. Charles shared a wonderful life with his beloved wife, Mary Lou Sharp, whom he married on March 31, 1984.

A proud graduate of Union City High School, Charles served his country honorably for 20 years in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, retiring as a 1st Sergeant. His dedication to service continued as a lifetime member of the North East VFW and American Legion, where he proudly held the position of Post Commander. Charles was also an active member of the Imperial Knights Colorguard, where he participated in many state and national conventions, earning top honors, including the prestigious opportunity to present the colors at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C.

In addition to his military achievements, Charles worked at Smith Meter in Erie for 20 years before lending a helping hand at the Union City Country Club during his retirement. He had a passion for the Pittsburgh Steelers, enjoyed playing golf and pool, and was known to light up the room at parties with his vibrant personality.

Charles is survived by his wife, Mary Lou, as well as two daughters, Lisa Little of Union City and Theresa Riddle (William) of Guys Mills; three sons, Keith Sharp (Sandy) of Erie, Jim Dempsey (Sue) of Erie, and Dan Dempsey (Carrie) of Kane. He leaves behind fifteen grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, a cousin Shirley Blystone of Phillipsville, a brother-in-law Murray Sharp of Holden, OK, numerous nieces and nephews, and five sons from a previous marriage. He was preceded in death by his parents, a grandson Austin Miller, his brother Ted Rose, and his sister-in-law Martha Rose.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, March 28th, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the American Legion LeBaron Post 237 in Union City, followed by a memorial service at 3:00 PM, complete with full military honors provided by the Erie/Crawford Burial Detail. Family and friends are invited to join for dinner after the services to celebrate Charles’s remarkable life.

Burial will take place at a later date at Rose Hill Cemetery in Spartansburg. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations in Charles’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or to the Lecom VNA of Erie County.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to Melissa Urban from hospice, who became like family to Charles in his final days.

Please take a moment to share a memory or condolence with the family on Charles’ Book of Memories online at www.WarrenGlennFH.com. Arrangements are in the care of Warren-Glenn Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc. 62 S. Main Street, Union City, PA 16438.