Charles Edward Bancroft Charles Edward Bancroft, 84, of Hartville, Ohio, went peacefully into the arms of Jesus on Friday, December 30, 2011, at 8:55 AM. He had suffered from multiple sclerosis for many years, yet served faithfully his Savior for 73 years, his church, and his family. Charles was born December 1, 1927, in Hudson Michigan to George Orville and Vira (Hall) Bancroft. Following graduation from Tecumseh High School in 1945, he worked at the Tecumseh Products before attending Cleveland Bible College (now Malone University). While attending Cleveland Bible College (CBC), Charles felt called to preach the Gospel. He graduated from CBC in 1952 with a Bachelor of Theology Degree. After graduating from CBC, he went 2 years to Baldwin Wallace College, graduating in 1953 with a BA in Religion and History. He also did some graduate work at Kent State University. He married Ida Mae (Bolyard) on June 5, 1948. Charles served as a pastor for 50 years with the Evangelical Friends Church - Eastern Region (EFC-ER). He began his ministry with the Celina Friends Church (4 years), Barberton Friends Church (19 years), East Goshen Friends Church (12 years), and the Anderson United Methodist Church (3 years). He also served as the chaplain at the Copeland Oaks/Crandall Medical Center for 7.5 years. Even through the date of his death, he prayed for and ministered to people. Throughout his years of service, Charles served on many EFC-ER Committees and Boards, including Friends Youth Board, Finance & Stewardship Board, Ministerial Accreditation Board, and Nominating Board. He also assisted with the EFC-ER Annual Conference lodging registration for many years. He loved sports. He played basketball, baseball, tennis, and softball. He served one year as the first head basketball coach of Malone University from 1957-58 and was recognized during the 50th Anniversary of the Malone University Basketball program. He also refereed basketball for 16 years through the Ohio High School Athletic Association and received the Outstanding Service Plaque Meritorious award. In 1995, the Malone University built the baseball press box in Charles' honor as he announced the baseball games for many years. Charles served on the Malone University Alumni Executive Board and served as the alumni representative to University Board of Trustees. In 1975 he received the Certificate of Merit and in 1986 was the Alumnus of the Year. Charles was very committed to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He loved people and had a deep compassion for people as visitation was a special gift of his. He also was very gifted in administration and teaching the Word. For the past three years, he read the Bible through once every year. In addition to his parents, Reverend Bancroft was preceded in death by his brother, Forrest Alva, his sister, Helen Mae, 2 nephews, and 2 nieces. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Ida Mae, three children, Connie of Alliance, Claude (Sonia) of Hartville, and Charles I (Robin) of Canfield. He is also survived by three grandchildren, Charles E II, Daniel, and Claude Jr. and 1 nephew and 3 nieces. Interment has taken place at the Mount Peace Cemetery in Hartville OH in a private family service. A celebration service is planned for Wednesday, January 4, 2012, at 2 PM at the Canton First Friends Church, located at 5455 Market Avenue, North Canton, OH 44714 with Pastor Stan Hinshaw and Pastor John Ryser officiating. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 12:00 - 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Canton First Friends Church Missions Fund. "To God be the glory great things He has done - In my life and thru my life." Arnold 330-877-9364 www.arnoldfuneralhome.com