GRAY – Charles E. Googins, 89, died peacefully in his home Nov. 4, 2018, surrounded by family. Charles (Charlie) was the son of the late Charles and Muriel (Wade) Googins of Falmouth. Born in Portland, Oct. 15, 1929 he was one of 11 children.
Surviving siblings are brothers George Googins of Norway and Merle Googins of Cornish. Charlie is survived by his wife of 65 years, Dorothy A. (Thurlow) Googins; and their eight children, Charlene (Shelley) and husband Donald Doyle of Otisfield, James and Linda of North Yarmouth, Gregory and Rochelle of Standish, Steven and Robin of Gray, Charles (Chuck) and Lisa of Gray, Theodore (Ted) and Mary of Gray, Russell and Lynn of North Yarmouth, and Rebecca and her husband Kerry Winslow of Limington; 23 grandchildren; and 21 great-grandchildren. Charlie had great pride in his family and set a wonderful example to live by.
Charlie attended Falmouth schools, proudly served for six years in the National Guard and went on to work at Southworth Machine Co. for 30 years. He worked for Rich Tool & Die Co. for another ten years until his retirement.
Charlie and Dot spent nearly 50 years in Cumberland and raised their children on a gentlemen’s farm located on Pleasant Valley Road.
After retirement they enjoyed ten years in Albany Township, before moving to their current home in Gray. Charlie was not one to “sit still” — always moving, he took over as primary pie maker for the holidays. He also was famous for his zucchini relish and pickled beets!
Charlie was an active community member, serving on the Cumberland Town Council, the Maine Cooperative Extension Board and the Cumberland County Farmers Club, where he is a past President. He loved baseball and enjoyed coaching both Little League and Babe Ruth baseball for Cumberland/North Yarmouth. An avid Red Sox fan, he had the pleasure of seeing their recent world series win. Charlie also enjoyed volunteering at the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad.
The family wishes to thank Dr. Christian Thomas and staff, as well as VNA Hospice for their incredible support and kindness (especially Liz).
At Charlie’s request, a simple graveside service will be held Thursday Nov. 8, at Blanchard Cemetery, located on Winn Rd in Falmouth at 11 a.m.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to:
Maine Narrow Gauge RR
58 Fore St.
Portland, ME 04101 or:
VNA Home Health Hospice
50 Foden Rd.
So. Portland, ME 04106
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