DIXMONT – The Rev. Charles Frederick Smith, 75, moved up to glory Sept. 4, 2011, surrounded by his loving family at a Bangor hospital. Charlie was born Dec. 27, 1935, in Dixmont, the son of Earl and Eliza (Goodwin) Smith.
Although a Dixmont native, Charlie spent much of his time traveling around the world serving his country. A 20-year veteran in the U.S. Air Force, he served at stations in Texas, California, Japan, Taiwan, Vietnam, Turkey, Alaska and Maryland. After his retirement from the Air Force, he worked as a piano technician for Knapp’s Music Store, Bangor. He then worked independently as a piano tuner for 15 years, and was well known as “Charlie the Tuner.” Charlie loved his Lord, his family, and his community, and served them all faithfully. In 2004, Charlie was ordained as a minister. Charlie will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend.
Charlie is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Irene M. Smith; his daughters, Linda Ann Smart and husband, Eric, and Brenda Sue Daigle and husband, Richard; grandchildren, Ethan Smart, Chelsea Daigle, Joshua Daigle and Jason Daigle; his brother, Robert Earl Smith; a sister, Helen Baker; sister-in-law, Jennie Smith; as well as several nieces and nephews. Charles was predeceased by his parents; and brother, Paul E. Smith.
Family and friends may visit 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 8, at Hampden-Gilpatrick Funeral Home, 45 Western Ave., Hampden. A celebration of Charlie’s life will be held 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 9, at East Dixmont Community Church, 34 Church Hill Road, Dixmont, with Pastor Tim Boone officiating. Interment with military honors will be at Dixmont Corner Cemetery, Dixmont. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Charlie’s honor may be made in support of his grandchildren’s continued education to the Charles F. Smith Family Education Fund, care of Key Bank, 65 Main St., Newport, ME 04953. Messages of condolence and memories may be shared through
www.hampdengilpatrick.com.