Charles W. DeRose

Leila Kelly and the DeRose family, please accept my sincere condolences on the loss of your loved one. I remember Charlie fondly. We were classmates at Northampton High School - Class of 1959. He was admired by all and will be missed. Elizabeth "Betty" (Prokup) Marks, Sun City at Georgetown, TX.

Charlie hired me as a reporter for the Amherst Bulletin when the Amherst Record folded. He was warm gracious kind. He was a very good employer. He cared for the paper and the people. He would fly his plane to get fresh fish for the annual Gazette summer picnic. In some ways he was larger than life, so involved in so many aspects of the community. Most of all, he loved his family.

When we were children in elementary school, Charlie was known as ‘Billy’. We were together in grades 1 through 8 and have been friends ever since. Billy was a wonderful friend. We grew up together and managed difficult events - such as Billy’s mother sewing lace on the edges of his shirts so he’d be sure to keep those edges tucked in! Billy always was there for his friends. Loyalty was part of his DNA. His wife and children meant the world to him. He gave back so much to our world. ...

Dear Kelly, Liz, Annie,Nathan, we send our condolences. Charlie was a master of life in so many ways. He was a friend and we will miss his presence. Julie and Tim Washburn

Dear Kelly, My sincerest condolences to you and your family. Though, many years have passed, I remember the times Harry and I spent at your Rhode Island cottage. Laughter, smiles and lots of funny stories!! May the love and support from family and friends bring you comfort. Sincerely, Jeanne

My condolences to the family. There is so much to say, where to begin. I met Charlie in 1964, and were friends always after. He was fun, funny, always had a laugh and just so much fun to be with. The city has lost a great trooper. RIP, my friend

Dear Kelly and Family, I was saddened by the news of Charlie's passing. I am very sorry for your loss. Charlie was a warm and generous person. I learned a lot about the business side of newspapers from Charlie and I deeply appreciate his sense of community and public service, which he also fostered at the Gazette. I have fond recollections of working with him and Peter. May cherished memories provide peace and solace in this difficult time.

Charlie was an incredibly wonderful, one of a kind, individual. I loved working for him at the Gazette. He was kind, generous, and a lot of fun to be with. Be it in his plane, hot air balloon, or office, I felt happy and safe with Charlie. News of his death saddens me. My condolences to Kelly and family.

Kelly and family, So sorry and sad to hear the news about Charlie. I will always remember the trip to the Bahamas and the fun time we had. Charlie was a great pilot!!