Charles Henry Wikle 99 of Lubbock, formerly of Friona and Melrose died Wed. August 1, 2012 in Lubbock. Graveside services have been scheduled for 10:00A.M. New Mexico time Friday August 3, 2012 at the Melrose Cemetery in Melrose, New Mexico with Rev. Wes Bygel of Lubbock, officiating. Burial following in the Melrose Cemetery by Blackwell-Mullins Funeral Home in Friona. Mr. Wikle was born November 27, 1912 in Erie, Kansas to Charlie L. and Rose Chase Wikle. He married Dorothy Elizabeth Lembach July 23, 1939 in Erie, Kansas. Mr. Wikle was an accomplished mechanic, working at one point as a ranch mechanic in Arizona for the legendary actor John Wayne. He was a self taught welder and created items from metal for his personal use. Even though he never had children of his own, they were a great love in his life. He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, 2 brothers Roy and John Wikle, 3 sisters-Anna Mae Vance, Bessie Trueblood and Minnie Brown. Survivors include-1 brother Ralph Wikle of Casa Grande, AZ., 2 sisters-Etta Simpson of Lubbock, and Emma Sweet of Golden, MO., along with numerous nieces and nephews.