Charles E. Mapes, 78, of Elkhart, passed away on Monday, October 26, 2020, at his residence, surrounded by his loving family. On July 28, 1942, he was born in Elkhart to the late Charles E. Mapes and Sarah J. (Smith) Mapes.

Charles is survived by his children, Christy Caffrey and Bryan Mapes; grandchildren, Sashia (Jacob) Norment, McKinley (Brad Keegan) Mapes, Daylon Frye, Maxson Caffrey, and Lydia Caffrey; great grandchildren, Ayrabella, Gwendolyn, and Alden Norment; two nephews he helped raise, Roy Barnett and Henry (Diane) Barnett; and siblings, Kathy Beardsley, Robert Mapes, and Vinnia (Denis) Eash. He is preceded in death by his loving wife, Priscilla “Pat” Mapes; parents; son, Aaron Mapes; and brothers, John and Raymond Mapes.  

Charles worked as a Machinist for over 60 years at Jessen Manufacturing and was a long-time member of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church. He was an avid Bingo player, enjoyed visiting the casinos with Pat, and was a fan of westerns. Though he was often reserved in nature, he had a welcoming presence. His grandchildren and great grandchildren were his pride and joy.

A visitation will take place on Thursday, October 29, 2020 at Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St. in Elkhart from 5-7 p.m. A service will be Friday, October 30, 2020 at 4:00 p.m. with an hour of visitation prior at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 405 W. Beardsley Ave. in Elkhart with Rev. Tom DeFries officiating. In accordance with his wishes, cremation was chosen and will follow services with a burial at a later date in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. Memorial donations may be given to St. Paul’s United Methodist Church and Saving Grace Advocacy c/o St. Paul’s United Methodist Church.