ARGYLE – Charles J. Smith Jr., 82, passed away Tuesday, March 6, 2007, after a long battle with Alzhei-mer’s disease. Charlie was born in Brooklyn, N.Y., the son of Charles “Gus” J. Smith Sr. and Genevieve (Hand) Smith. Charlie grew up during the depression and when World War II came, he was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Coast Guard and assigned to the Merchant Marine Service. He saw action throughout the war, bringing war materials to Russia on the Murmansk run, supporting the invasion of Italy at Anzio and throughout the South Pacific. After the war, Charlie stayed in the Merchant Marines and by his own estimation went around the world some 30 times. He could tell stories about every major port of call and frequently did. He met his wife, Margaret and he became a New York City police officer and settled in Pearl River, N.Y., along the way raising his four sons. After more than 20 years on the police force he retired to Argyle and with the help of sons, Bruce and Kurt, built his home overlooking the Penobscot River. Charlie was of the greatest generation that believed in duty and hard work, first to show up and last to leave. Charlie is survived by his wife of 57 years, Margaret; sons, Charles, Patrick, Bruce and Kurt and his wife, Denise; brother, William and his wife, Sarah; four grandchildren, Erica, Kimberly, Desirae and Colin; two great-grandchildren, Alexa Lee and Isabella Rose. Charlie is also survived by his nephews, Craig, Donald and most especially, William Jr. and his wife, Barbara. Charlie was also lucky to have many good friends over the years but especially Michael Shirley who he considered a fifth son. Friends may call 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Friday at Birmingham Funeral Home, 438 Main St., Old Town, where a funeral service will be conducted 11 a.m. Saturday. Burial will be held in the spring at Cedarville Cemetery. www.birminghamfuneralhome.com
CHARLES J. SMITH JR.
