HOLLIS/LIMINGTON- Charles “Charlie” G. Townsend Sr., age 94, passed away on March 2, 2015 at his residence surrounded by his family.
He was born in Saco, the son of Winslow and Marguerite (Hutchinson) Townsend.
After graduating from Hollis High School, Charlie worked as a door to door professional photographer and also worked as a lobsterman on North Haven Island.
He was the owner and founder of Hilltop Flying Service in Hollis. While this business was in operation, Charlie held a commercial pilot’s license and served as an instructor. Later, he worked for National Electric Coil in Columbus, Ohio as a mechanical draftsman. Afterward, he was employed as a programming engineer for WGAN-TV until his retirement.
Charlie enjoyed many different activities to include; wood carving, operating his Ham Radio all hours of the night all over the world, fly fishing, bowhunting, snowshoeing, canoeing and cross country skiing with his wife. He approached the things he enjoyed with such passion that he became an accomplished craftsmen in these areas and made his own flies for fishing, arrows for hunting, snowshoes, and canoes.
For about15 years he and his wife wintered in Florida with their RV and made many friends while doing so. During the summers, they enjoyed camping together throughout Maine and making new friends.
Charlie was an avid reader and learner, especially State of Maine historical books, and books dealing with wolves, deer, and activities that interested him at the time.
He was very patriotic and always hung his flag out every day when it wasn't raining out, and brought it in every evening at sunset and properly folded it with respect.
He was also a longtime member of Buxton Masonic Lodge #115 AF&AM.
Beverly Harriman (Brenda’s mother) lived in an apartment of Paul & Brenda’s adjacent to Charlie where they spent many hours laughing and watching TV. Beverly helped in watching over Charlie and when she no longer could, his great grandson Caleb was there to assist.
Charlie's family would like to extend their thanks and gratitude to the caregivers that helped take care of him over the last eight years, Bobbie, Joanne, and Pam loved him dearly, made him laugh everyday and who were affectionately called “Charlie’s Angels”. And we thank all the visiting nurses who helped enhance his life throughout the years. Also, his family would like to thank Hospice of Southern Maine who made his last few days of life a gift to everyone.
He is predeceased by his beloved wife- Florence “Floss” (Dodge) Townsend.
Charlie is survived by his children- Charles “Sonny” Townsend Jr and his wife Ernestine “Lee” of Hollis, Annette Arnold of Old Orchard Beach, and Paul Townsend and his wife Brenda of Limington; grandchildren- Chris, Danita, Brent, Tina, and Abbie who lovingly called him Bub/Bubba; nine great grandchildren; and several great great grandchildren.
Visitation will be private amongst Charlie's family. A graveside service will be held on Saturday May 30 at 11 AM at Hillcrest Cemetery in Hollis.
Arrangements are with Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service, Long Plains Road – Buxton. Online condolence messages can be submitted at www.mainefuneral.com.