Charles M. Runyon

Charles M. Runyon, 86, of Grants Pass died Saturday, Oct. 4, 2008, at his home. Private interment will be at Eagle Point National Cemetery. Stephens Family Chapel is in charge of arrangements. He was born Aug. 10, 1922, in San Diego to Frank and Margaret Runyon. From Nov. 15, 1939, until his honorable discharge on Aug. 24, 1945, Runyon served in the Army. He was a Pearl Harbor survivor. In 1945, he married his wife, Mildred, who died in 2000. As "Chucko the Birthday Clown," he was a popular Los Angeles children's TV show host in the 1950s and 1960s. He appeared on KABC from 1955 to 1963, and on KTTV from 1963 to 1964. In 1970, he moved to Grants Pass from Los Angeles. He enjoyed being a clown and golfing. Survivors include two sons, Dan Runyon of Grants Pass, and Randy Runyon of Santa Clarita, Calif.; plus 10 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.