MILLINOCKET – Charles Elden Chase took the last steps of his lifelong journey to be with his Lord, Oct. 27, 2009. He peacefully passed away at his home, in the environment that was most familiar and comfortable to him, as The Lord’s Prayer was being recited to him by loved ones at his side. Charles, known as Charlie to some, was born Oct. 3, 1946, in Bangor, ninth of 10 children born to Dorothy Tapley Chase and Elden Chase. After the death of his parents, Charles lived for a time with his brother, Peter, before going to live with his brother and sister-in-law, Walter and Irene Chase in Medway. He remained with them, as an important part of their family, for many years before seeking independence and moving into his own home in Millinocket. Although Charles did not receive any formal education, he eagerly learned from others around him. He used that knowledge to live a good life surrounded by the things most important to him: his faith, his family and his friends. Charles was a humble man, respectful and kind, and always good-humored. He was, in fact, a jokester, getting great pleasure from “pulling one over” someone, but always careful that the person understood he was kidding and that person was not offended. His gracious ways were always warm and inviting toward those he already knew and to those he was eager to meet. He loved music and often prayed in song. He shared his passion with others as he played his harmonica and sang his favorite tunes. He believed Jesus to be his protector and healer, and would put himself in those spiritual roles to comfort others in his own life. For many years, Charles has been a faithful member of his church, I Care Ministries, where he designated a seat at the front as his own and also participated in the men’s Bible study group. He volunteered many hours at the food pantry and clothing bank there, as well as for many other local groups. Before his illness, Charles was a fixture in the Millinocket community for more than a decade. Charles’ move into his own apartment, his community connections, particularly through church, his kind and sincere personality, and his deep spirituality affected everyone he met. He was the personable host to political figures and commissioners who were always impressed with his home, his graciousness and his community activities. His story, which was told to countless people throughout the country, inspired and challenged many and created changes that improved the lives of many individuals with disabilities. He was a great example of the power of community and the ability of individuals to achieve much when given the chance. Charles will be missed for what he did, but much more for who he was. Charles is survived by his sisters, Madeline and her husband, Frederick, of Howland, Helen Coots of Savonnah, N.Y., Miriam Culpepper of Southport, N.C., and Mary Urusky of Bath, N.Y.; and his brothers, Fred Chase and his wife, Loretta, of East Corinth, Harrison and Audrey Chase of Sioux City, Iowa, Walter Chase and his wife, Irene, of Medway and Peter Chase and his wife, Faith, of Valdosta, Ga. He also leaves many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister, Anna Tingley. Charles touched the lives of many throughout the years, especially those affiliated with him through KFI, where he will always be remembered as a mentor, teacher and a friend. He will be sorely missed by those who provided support to him in his home the past few years: Betty Goody, Charlotte Tapley and Brenda Lewin. Friends are invited to join in a celebration of Charles’ life 3 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 4, at I Care Ministries with Pastor Herschel Hafford officiating. Memories, food and fellowship will be shared at a potluck meal after the service. Gifts in memory of Charles may be sent to Katahdin Friends, Inc., 1024 Central St., Millinocket, ME 04462 or I Care Ministries Food Pantry, 45 Spring St., Millinocket, ME 04462.
CHARLES ELDEN CHASE
