Charles ‘Charlie’ Hornberger passed away on July 12‚ 2010‚ from complications of a heart attack after responding to a call on June 30‚ 2010‚ with the Milmont Park Fire Company Station #49.
Born in Darby‚ he was the son of the late Gustaves Charles and Anna Van Sice Hornberger and brother of the late Kay Jacobs and Margaret Humphreys. A longtime resident of Ridley Township and a 1967 graduate of Ridley High School‚ he served in the US Army during the Vietnam War.
Charlie was a life member and dedicated firefighter with the Milmont Park Fire Company Station #49‚ where he held the position of assistant engineer and was a past deputy chief‚ captain‚ lieutenant‚ and assistant engineer. He was also a member and past chief of the S.M. Vauclain Fire Company and had previously served with the Holmes and Rutledge Fire Companies. A 911 dispatcher‚ he had worked for both Ridley Township and Delaware County. Charlie was also assistant fire marshal for Ridley Township and the Third District fire marshal. He was a member of several Delco.organizations‚ including the Delaware Valley Fire Chiefs Association and the Shamrock Judges.
His wife of 35 years‚ Maureen A. Wright Hornberger‚ died in 2005. Survivors include his daughter‚ MaryAnne‚ and son-in-law‚ Thomas Leonard‚ of Woodlyn; his sister‚ Sue Howard‚ of Kentucky; nieces‚ nephews‚ and other family members; and three grandchildren‚ Jessica‚ Julia‚ and Thomas.
Charlie was an avid fire truck collector and enjoyed model railroading. He was devoted to his grandchildren‚ who he loved dearly. He was a Phillies and Eagles fan.
Charlie touched a lot of lives throughout the fire service and will be missed by all.
Ridley Townshitherp never had a better public servant.Chopper was my Deputy Chief for four years. I couldn’t ask for a better supporter/ leader. Charlie was also my fire service brother and I miss him.God. Bless you Charlie,Thanks for the good times. I will see yoou at the big one.
– Bill AndersonLove and miss you Charlie,a hard working dedicated man!!
– Debbie Thomas