Obituary
On March 2, 2024, Donald Lee Charles passed away at the age of 76 in North Fort Myers, Florida after more than 25 years of a courageous cancer battle.
Donald was born in Portland, Maine to James and Dorothy (Main) Charles on June 17, 1947. He grew up on a dairy farm in Westbrook’s Pride Corner area, graduating from Westbrook High School in 1965. He went on to attend Southern Maine and Central Maine Vocational Technical Institutes.
He married Paula Marie Perry on September 30, 1967. They had two children, Melissa and James. They moved their family to Windham where they lived for over 30 years. Donald worked in the family business, Colonial Electronics, in Portland. Additionally, he worked for Bear Automotive Company. Later he added Cialini’s Variety to the building on St John Street. After retirement, they became snowbirds living in North Fort Myers, Florida while summering at Point Sebago in Casco. Maine. Don was active in his community in Florida and was a member of the Indiana Club. Helping out his neighbors with home repairs and projects was something he did often. He rediscovered a love of riding motorcycles. Don had many interests including fishing, cycling, gardening, and painting. Don and Paula especially enjoyed entertaining and traveling together. Two of his most memorable trips included cycling through the Florida Keys and exploring Alaska. The love story of Don and Paula is one of true love and dedication. They celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary in September of 2023. Don made a promise to care for Paula through her cancer illness, and he kept it. He endured treatments to extend his life long enough to be her caregiver until she passed on December 20, 2023.
He was predeceased by his parents, sister Kathy Charles, son-in-law Samuel Jones, and his wife, Paula. Donald is survived by his children Melissa Jones of Houston, Texas, James Charles and his wife Kimberly of Newburg, Indiana; grandchildren Kyler and Griffin Charles of Newburg, Indiana, and Mariah Charles of Austin, Texas; three great-grandchildren, sister-in-law Joan Blodgett of South Portland, Maine; several nieces, nephews, and cousins. The family would like to express their gratitude to Hope Hospice of Florida, cousin and caregiver Susan Wilder of Glen Allen, Virginia, and the close network of friends who provided care and support in North Fort Myers especially his friend of more than 40 years, Joe Carriveau.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Florida Cancer Care Specialists Foundation. FCS Foundation, 5985 Silver Falls Run, Suite 210, Bradenton, FL 34211. Please make checks payable to “Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation”. https://fcsf.org/ways-to-help/donate/
Leave a reply