Darwin T Charles
May 22, 1922 - June 27, 2018

Darwin Theodore Charles, 96, of Palm City, Florida passed away in his home on June 27.

Born in Syracuse, NY, Darwin spent his early years in upstate New York where he developed an interest in music and theater. He played saxophone at local venues and went on to study music in New York on a scholarship program before he enlisted in the military service and became a lieutenant in the United States Air force. Darwin served over 25 missions as a pilot and bombardier during WWII.

Following the war Darwin returned to the states where he began his career in the furniture business, starting as a sales representative for Bassett Furniture. In 1965 he launched his own furniture company (C&D Distributors) in Schenectady, New York, specializing in wholesale furniture distribution to local retailers. The business eventually transitioned to retail with three stores in the Albany area. Now called the Old Brick, the family business continues to operate going on its 53 ^rd year in the tri-state area.

While building his business Darwin continued to pursue his interest in music and theater, performing lead roles in several civic productions and playing both trumpet and saxophone for pleasure. He was also a tennis and golf enthusiast and remained active in these sports after retiring and moving to Florida.

Darwin's passion was his business but he also was a life-long supporter of Israel, and organizations such as the Anti-Defamation League, Jewish Federation and the Boys and Girls Club of America. He was known for his strong work ethic, sense of humor and his ability to converse with people from all walks of life.

Darwin is survived by his wife, Miriam Charles, and his daughters Lissa Charles and her husband Thomas Spignesi of Norwalk, CT, Diana Charles of Tamarac, FL and Wendy Terk and her husband Henry of Albany, NY, and his five grand children, Alison Atlas of Coconut Creek, FL, David Atlas of New York, NY, Suzanne Spignesi of Boston, MA, Erica Terk of Boston, MA, and Michael Terk of Westbury, NY. He is also survived by his step-children Robin Diamond of Delray Beach, FL, Steven Diamond and his wife Dee Dee of Boulder, CO, and his step-grandson David Diamond of Cocoa Beach, FL.

Services will be private.

Please feel free to share a remembrance or message of condolence with the family through this online guestbook.

Arrangements are entrusted to Forest Hills Funeral Home Palm City, FL.