Charlton/Newton Highlands
Charles W. Nightingale, 93, passed away Thursday, December 19, 2013 at Harrington Memorial Hospital in Southbridge. He leaves his wife of 70 years, Mary (Bolton) Nightingale who he married December 11, 1943, together they raised 7 children; Martha F. Nightingale of Edinburgh, Scotland, Timothy E. Nightingale of Turners Falls, Amy Nightingale of Durham, N.H., Peter L. Nightingale of Keene, N.H., and Craig S. Nightingale of Palo Alto, CA. a brother; Chester “Chet” Nightingale of Lynnfield, 2 sisters; Erma Wiggin of Weston and Gertrude Gettle of Melbourne Beach, FLA., 7 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Charles was predeceased by 2 children; Carol and Brian.
He was born in Boston the son of the late Professor Winthrop E. and Mary (Rowe) Nightingale and lived in Newton Highlands, attended Newton schools, graduated from Colby College, attended Harvard Business School and joined the U.S. Navy in WWII and was a fighter pilot and received his ‘wings’ as did his father 25 years prior. Charles served in the Pacific Theater on 2 tours and served on 4 aircraft carriers before returning home to a normal life. He owned and operated a tree farm in Brookline, N.H., also designed and built his first house in Wayland, worked for the Frank B. Hall Co. of New England for 43 years. He will be remembered for his busy life and his active service in Masonry, a member for 60 years, received 50 year Veterans’ Medal was a member of St. John’s Lodge in Boston and was Past Worshipful Master of the Lodge and also served as Past District Grand Master.
Charles was an avid New England sports fan, with a special devotion reserved for the Red Sox, he also enjoyed fishing, flying and golf and maintained his ‘Yankee Humor’ and loved his New England Heritage.
At Charles’ request there are no calling hours and Funeral Services will be Private.
The ROBERT J. MILLER-CHARLTON FUNERAL HOME, 175 Old Worcester Rd., in Charlton is assisting the family with arrangements.
On Line Guest Book or to leave a Memory: RJMillerfunerals.net