Carlos Sainz Obituary
Obituary published on Legacy.com by Mitchell-Wiedefeld Funeral Home, Inc. on Oct. 14, 2025.
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Carlos "Charlie" Sainz
July 7, 1964 – October 10, 2025
Carlos Sainz, lovingly known as "Charlie" to family and friends, passed away peacefully on October 10, 2025, in Towson, Maryland, at the age of 61. Born on July 7, 1964, in Baltimore, Charlie spent his early years in the city and moved to Towson in his mid 20's, where he became a familiar and cherished presence to all who met him.
Charlie was the beloved son of the late Isabel (Palancar) Sainz and Deacon Miguel E. Sainz, and is survived by his father and five siblings: Miguel (Mike) Sainz and his wife Melanie; Jose (Joe) Sainz and his wife Rosemary; Carmen Maria Draayer and her husband Doug; Ana Maria McIntyre and her husband Timothy; and Pablo Sainz and his wife Jackie. He also shared a special bond with his seventeen nieces and nephews and thirteen great-nieces and nephews, who adored their Uncle Charlie for his warmth, humor, and endless love. Charlie also leaves behind several cousins including his beloved cousin and Godfather Lorenzo Gaztanaga and his wife Susan.
Charlie is also survived by his longtime friend, Pam, who faithfully accompanied him to Mass and around town.
From the day he was born, Charlie faced life's challenges with courage and determination. Diagnosed with cerebral palsy at birth, doctors advised his parents to place him in an institution-advice they bravely ignored. With the devotion of his mother Isabel and the support of family friend Sister George Marie Geiger, SSND, Charlie learned to walk and talk, defying every expectation. His perseverance and spirit inspired everyone who knew him.
Charlie attended St. Mary of the Assumption School in Govans and remained a devoted parishioner there for many years before joining the Church of the Immaculate Conception in Towson. He graduated from Fairmount High School in Baltimore City, where he earned not only his diploma but also the Principal's Award at graduation-an achievement that reflected his hard work and determination.
Charlie worked for many years as a library clerk at the Enoch Pratt Free Library in Govans. Though his mobility challenges later required a wheelchair, Charlie never slowed down. Known throughout Towson and Baltimore for his motorized chair and joyful personality, he could be seen zipping through neighborhoods, visiting local shops and restaurants, and even riding the MTA and Greyhound buses to destinations like Ocean City or BWI Airport-where he loved to watch airplanes take off and land. Always independent, Charlie was known to blow his whistle to stop traffic as he crossed the street, determined to keep moving at his own pace and on his own terms.
Charlie was a devoted Baltimore Orioles and Baltimore Blast fan, often cheering from the stands in one of his signature hats. His hat collection-ranging from funny to festive to sporty-was a trademark of his unique spirit. Charlie was also a fan of playing Bingo, trying his luck at local casinos, and above everything else loved his scratch offs. Somehow he always seemed to get the winning cards.
Above all, Charlie will be remembered for his courage, independence, and joy for life. His disability never defined him; rather his resilience turned it into his greatest ability.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, October 16th at 11:00 a.m. at the Church of the Nativity in Timonium, followed by a Celebration of Life at 12:00 p.m. and a fellowship gathering at the church. Interment will be private at Moreland Cemetery following the gathering.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Charlie's memory to the School Sisters of Notre Dame: https://atlanticmidwest.org/give, in honor of Sister George Marie Geiger, SSND who had a great impact on his life.