Charles H. “Buster” Coker, 84, of Gainesville, Fla., and formerly of Punta Gorda, Fla., and Ooltewah, Tenn., passed away Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2012, in Gainesville.

He was born in Arcadia, Fla., the son of Charles and Leila Simmons Coker, Feb. 4, 1928.

Buster served his country during World War II as a seaman in the U.S. Merchant Marine, followed by service in the U.S. Army in Germany. He retired as a facilities technician in the telecommunications field after 38 years of service. He was a member of the Independent Telephone Pioneer Association, with various certificates of excellence in his field. Charles held a private pilot license and loved hunting, camping, fishing, NASCAR, football and WWII history. He was a loving husband and a devoted father.

Charles is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Frances Matthews Coker; daughter, Annette Coker Caprario; sons, Mike Coker and Robert Coker; grandson, Christopher Coker; and great-grandson, Jadon Coker. He was preceded in death by both parents; and three sisters.

Graveside Services will be held with military honors at 1 p.m. Monday, Dec. 17, 2012, at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Fla. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Haven Hospice, 4200 N.W. 90th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32606.

Arrangements are by Milam Funeral and Cremation Services, 311 S. Main St., Gainesville.