Charles "Charlie" W. Schmieg, Sr., of Rockland, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully at home after a long illness, surrounded by his family.

Born on March 4, 1939, in the Bronx, New York, Charlie dedicated his life to service, family and community. He shared 61 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Kathy, who he met while stationed at Dyess Air Force Base in the early 1960s.

Charlie served a distinguished career in the United States Air Force, beginning with the Atlas missile program and later working as a radar technician and Air Force recruiter. From 1968 to 1972, he was stationed in Tokyo, Japan, and completed tours of duty in Vietnam and throughout Southeast Asia. His years in the Air Force shaped him profoundly, and he remained a proud veteran throughout his life.

Following his military retirement, Charlie earned his bachelor's degree in computer science from Daniel Webster College. He went on to work as an engineer for both Honeywell Bull and later Hewlett-Packard, settling in Hollis, New Hampshire, for 30 years.

Charlie's greatest joy was connecting with people. Warm, social, and always positive, he had a gift for striking up friendships with everyone he met. For many years, he volunteered as Santa Claus at local events, a role that he relished each holiday season. His wife Kathy, his children, and especially his grandchildren, were the center of his world, and he placed their welfare above all else.

Charlie is survived by his wife, Katherine L. E. Moon: his son, Charles W. Schmieg, Jr, and wife Lauren Hoops-Schmieg; and his grandchildren Charles G. Schmieg and Madeleine Schmieg. He was preceded in death by his daughter for Jennifer A. Schmieg.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to South Shore Veterans assistance or to the Alzheimer's Association.

A Graveside Service will be held in the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne on Friday, December 19, 2025 at 11:15 a.m.