Charles M. Gordon Sr.

On Wednesday, January 20, 2016 Charles M. Gordon, Sr. passed away at the age of 86. Born in Cleveland Ohio, his parents were Lee Gordon and Margaret "Marm" (Stahl) Gordon. Chuck's father also known as "Stubby" was the music and orchestral director for the NBC affiliate (WTAM) in Cleveland, Ohio. Chuck grew up in a home that was always filled with musicians and music. His love for music is illustrated by his expansive music collection. At the age of 20, Chuck enlisted in the United States Navy. He served, honorably, aboard the USS Raymond, as a Third-Class Petty Officer and Radar Man during the Korean War. After service to his country, Chuck enrolled in the Cambridge School of Broadcasting. His career in the news industry began on the radio for WPLM in Plymouth, MA. On the station's first day of on-air operations, Chuck was at the microphone as a morning host. Chuck and his family later moved to the Boston area for an on-air position at WORL. Shortly after, Chuck joined the news team at WHDH (then, Channel 5) where he was initially radio and television news writer and later producer of the 6 PM and 11PM newscasts. In 1972, Chuck was recruited by WNAC (Channel 7), again, working as newscast producer and assignment editor. His career also included teaching a writing course at Graham Junior College. Chuck was known for his strong and enthusiastic commitment in searching for news stories in a fast-paced environment. Delivering the news with accuracy was a top priority. He worked long hours that stretched into his time at home and through weekends. Chuck's hardworking style earned trust and dedication from staff and colleagues around the country. Many life-long friendships developed from his work in the news industry. In a 1995 newspaper article, at the time of Chuck's retirement, a Boston journalist referred to Chuck as "the Dean of Boston television news assignment editors". In addition to Emmy awards, Chuck was honored with the Associated Press Radio Television Digital News Association (RTNDA) Lifetime Achievement Award, in March of 2004. The event, held at the John F. Kennedy Library & Museum, was attended by broadcast journalism professionals from around the country. Chuck was honored for his contributions to radio and television that spanned decades of war, peace, political campaigns and daily stories on both the national and local levels. Following retirement from Channel 7, he consulted for Channel 56 on the organization of their video library. He was active in his church parishes. He was a driver for students with disabilities and volunteered at a shelter for homeless mothers and children. Chuck leaves behind many friends. Chuck continued to stay active and enjoyed making new contacts. He followed the news daily and kept in touch with friends. Chuck is survived by his son, Charles M. Gordon Jr. and his wife, Christine R. (Centola) Gordon and their two children Alessandra and Taylor, formerly of Waltham. Family and friends will honor and remember Chuck's life by gathering for calling hours on Tuesday, January 26th, from 4-8 pm in The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street, (Rte. 20), Waltham and again on Wednesday at 10 am before leaving in procession to Saint Jude Church, 147 Main Street, Waltham where his Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 am. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Waltham. Chuck's generosity was shared with many important organizations. His love for his dogs made the Animal Rescue League of Boston one of the most special to him. If you would like to donate to support animal rescue efforts, in Chuck's memory, the address is Animal Rescue League, 10 Chandler Street, Boston, MA 02116.