Charles J. Rock

Charles J. Rock of Lunenburg, decorated Army veteran; 60 LUNENBURG Charles J. Rock, 60, of Lunenburg, died unexpectedly Thursday, July 17, 2008 at his home. Charlie was a highly honored Veteran and was regarded as a true hero to his country, family and friends. He displayed his patriotism proudly. He had an amazing strength evidenced by his physical presence and his unwavering determination and will. Born in Munich, Germany, January 17, 1948, son of the late Joseph Rock and Carmen Rock-Page, he resided much of his life in the Shirley-Lunenburg area. He attended St. Anthony's School in Shirley, and graduated from Ayer High School in 1967, and attended the University of Lowell. He entered the Armed Services in 1968 and attained the rank of Sergeant and was honorably discharged in 1970. While in the service, he received many commendations among which was the Purple Heart Medal, and the Bronze Star Medal for heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile force while serving with Company B, 3rd Battalion, 22nd Infantry in Vietnam. For most of his life, he worked in the commercial trucking industry where he drove large transport vehicles and operated heavy specialized equipment at EPIC Enterprises, JP Sullivan Company in Ayer, and at the JC Madigan Company in Harvard, Mass., where he was considered part of the Madigan family. He served in the Massachusetts National Guard from 1977-1984, the Shirley American Legion, and the Disabled American Veterans Minuteman Chapter where he served as Commander. For 20 years, he was a very active member in the Ayer/Shirley Lions Club where he served as president for three terms. He is survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Randy and Valerie Rock of Shirley; two sisters; Linda Kavalaris and Cynthia Rock, both of San Francisco, California; six nieces and nephews, Anza Smith, Randy Neylon, Dan Neylon, Cherise Rock, Nathan Rock, and Joseph. Charlie loved spending time in Maine, tending his garden and was a wonderful cook. His sharp wit, impeccable appearance, and humor will be remembered by all. ROCK Calling hours are 5-8 pm, Tuesday, July 22nd at the T.J. Anderson & Son Funeral Home, 25 Fitchburg Rd., (Rte. 2A) Ayer. A funeral Mass will be celebrated 10 a.m., Wednesday, July 23rd at St. Anthony's Church, 14 Phoenix St., Shirley. Prayers of committal will take place 1:30 pm, Wednesday at the Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne. Please see www.andersonfuneral.com for additional information. Memorial contributions may be made to the Disabled American Veterans, P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, Ohio 45250-0301. Attn: Gift Processing.