Hampden Gilpatrick Funeral & Cremation Services

Dixmont – The Rev. Charles Frederick Smith, 75, moved up to glory September 4, 2011 at a Bangor hospital surrounded by his loving family.  Charlie was born in Dixmont December 27, 1935, 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 twenty 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 in 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, September 8, 2011 at Hampden-Gilpatrick Funeral Home, 45 Western Avenue, Hampden.  A celebration of Charlie's life will be held 2 P.M. Friday, September 9, 2011 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 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, C/O Key Bank, 65 Main Street, Newport, ME 04953.  Messages of condolence and memories may be shared through www.hampdengilpatrick.com.