Charles Samuel Felice Sr.

Charles Samuel "Charlie" Felice, Sr., age 99, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2025, at the Equinox Terrace in Manchester Center, Vermont.
Charlie was born on August 23, 1926, in Derry, Pennsylvania. He was the son of Salvatore and Mary (Nolfi) Felice. Salvatore immigrated from Bugnara, L'Aquila, Italy. Charlie grew up in New Rochelle, New York, where he graduated from New Rochelle's Isaac E. Young High School in 1944. He played football and baseball for Isaac Young and was an accomplished trumpet player in school and local bands. Shortly after graduation, he answered the call to serve his country during World War II. From 1944 to 1946, Charlie served honorably in the United States Navy in the Pacific Theater of Operations as a communications and radar specialist. His service included action in the Philippines and post-surrender operations in Japan. These experiences shaped his deep sense of duty, love of country and resilience.
Following his military service, Charlie pursued higher education at the University of Oklahoma before embarking on a successful marketing career with the Frank G. Shattuck Company's Schrafft's brand of ice cream, candy, baked goods and restaurants and, later, with McKee Foods Little Debbie breakfast and snack foods division. His professional life reflected his strong work ethic and commitment to excellence.
Charlie was a devoted parishioner of the Blessed Sacrament Parish in New Rochelle, New York, where he volunteered in fund raising and found spiritual grounding and community throughout much of his life.
He is survived by his beloved wife of over 70 years Joan (nee Fletcher); his son Charles Felice, Jr. and daughter-in-law Cynthia O'Reilly Felice; his daughter Judith Shea, MD and son-in-law J. Timothy Shea; grandchildren Amanda Gambert (Ryan), Christopher Felice (Ashley), Patrick Felice, Ryan Shea (Emilie), and Kelsey Shea (Jonas Brobeck); and great-grandchildren Olivia and Emma Gambert, as well as Abigail, Amelia, and Caroline Felice; various nieces and nephews.
Charlie was predeceased by his parents and siblings Alfred Felice, Frank Felice, Marian Lorusso, and Virginia Meikleham.
A lifelong sports enthusiast, Charlie had a passion for Yankee baseball and Giants football. He also enjoyed playing golf-a pastime that brought him family camaraderie over the years. His biggest joy came from cheering on and supporting his son and daughter's successful high school and collegiate swimming careers as well as his grandchildren's cultural events, varsity high school and collegiate swimming, baseball, football, squash and tennis careers. Charlie's passion for the trumpet continued well into his later years when he gained pleasure practicing with his grandchildren.
Charlie's long life was marked by dedication to family, faith, country, and community. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him. A heartfelt thank you to the amazing staff at the Equinox Terrace who took good care of Charlie. A Graveside Service will be held on October 9, 2025, from 03:00 PM to 03:30 PM at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery 95 Kings Highway in New Rochelle. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Hudson Valley Honor Flight (hvhonorflight.com).