Charles Debord

Charles "Jerry" DeBord Charles "Jerry" DeBord, 70, of Indianapolis, formerly of Chillicothe, OH, died March 16, 2007 in his home, unexpectedly. He was born August 2, 1936 in Chillicothe, OH to Melvin and Olive George DeBord. Survivors include his two children, Krystal D. DeBord, of Playa del Rey, CA and Andrew R. DeBord, of Evansville, IN; two sisters, Jeannette Purdum, of Chillicothe, OH and Rosemary (Charles) Carter, of Atlanta, GA; a brother, Michael (Sharon) DeBord, of Columbus, OH; his mother, Olive (Harmon) Furney, of Chillicothe; and several nieces and nephews. His father preceded him in death. Chuck spent his long and distinguished professional career in the aerospace engineering field developing gas turbine engines for both commercial and military aircraft. A graduate of GMI Engineering and Management Institute (now Kettering University) in 1958, Chuck worked the majority of his career for Allison Engine Company in Indianapolis, Indiana. Starting as a technical assistant with Allison in 1954, Chuck worked to earn his degree from GMI, then spent his career as a mechanical project engineer, eventually reaching a third level supervisory position with the company. Retiring for the first time at the age of 54, Chuck immediately returned to Allison to start a second career working as a engineer and technical mentor on one of the world's most advanced helicopter engines. After retiring again, Chuck joined Agilis Engineering as the on-site manager for engineering activities with Allison (now Rolls-Royce). Chuck's on-site leadership contributed to the success of many technical projects for Rolls-Royce including engineering solutions in support of several advanced military engines. During Chuck's technical career, he was known for his technical expertise, dedication and hard work. His contributions to aviation will be felt for many years to come. He was a good friend to many engineers in his field, and he will surely be missed by all. He also was an avid fisherman. Funeral services will be held 11:00 am Thursday in the Haller Funeral Home, Chillicothe, OH. Burial will follow in Greenlawn Cemetery. Friends may call 5-8 pm Wednesday at Haller's.