Charles William Baskins, life long resident of North Platte departed this life on May 8, 2014. He was born July 24, 1920 to C.L. and Leah Baskins.
Charles was united in marriage to Ruby M. McKain on July 16, 1950. Survivors include Ruby, daughter Carla Huffman, and grandson Jared Charles Baskins. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Robert L. Baskins.
Charles graduated from North Platte High School in 1938. He then attended the University of Nebraska graduating Spring 1942 with a Bachelor of Science. His education was interrupted when the United States entered WWII and Charles enlisted with the Coast Guard in June, 1942. Upon discharge, he returned to the University of Nebraska, College of Law graduating in 1949. Charles then joined his father in the practice of law. His career spanned more than half a century.
In 1958, while serving as City Attorney for North Platte (1951-1959), Charles was elected as President of the Western Nebraska Bar Association which comprised the Thirteenth and Seventeenth Judicial Districts. He was elected to membership in the House of Delegates of the Nebraska State Bar Association in 1969. He is past president of the Lincoln County Bar Association. Charles was the attorney for the Village of Hershey from 1961-2000.
From 1961-1964, Charles served as the Chamber of Commerce Director. He was a member of the American Legion and B.P.O.E. for many years.
Charles was a Director of McDonald State Bank (1965-1982), Director of United Nebraska Bank (1982-2004) and Director of Hershey State Bank (1981-2007).
Charles was selected to receive the 1993 Award of Special Merit from the Nebraska State Bar Association for his 33 years of service on the Nebraska State Bar Commission.
Charles enjoyed the sport of skeet and trap shooting for most of his life. He also enjoyed pheasant, quail, goose and duck hunting.
Charles will long be remembered for his honesty and integrity in his personal as well as professional life.
Online condolences may be shared at www.carpentermemorial.com.
Graveside services will be 2:00 pm Thursday, May 15, 2014 at Ft. McPherson National Cemetery near Maxwell with military honors. His casket will not be open. Those wishing to sign the memorial book may do so from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm Tuesday and Wednesday with the family receiving friends from 5 to 8 pm Wednesday at Carpenter Memorial Chapel, which is in charge of arrangements.