Charles E. Pinette

Charles E. Pinette SFO ( Secular Order of Franciscans) formerly of Biddeford, passed away in Portland, Maine, November 7th of natural causes. Charles was born in Biddeford on May 28th, 1927, the son of William and Annie (Roberge) Pinette. He attended local schools and left St Louis High School in his Sophomore year to serve in the Navy during World War II. Charles was stationed in the Philippines as a coxswain first class and was awarded the World War II Victory Medal and the American Theater Medal. Charles was Honorably discharged when the war ended.
Charles resumed his education at St. Louis High School and lettered in football and baseball and captained the football team. Charles attended Boston College and played football on the team from the 1951 season through the 1954 season. He was scouted by professional football teams and was given offers to play professional football. Charles would eventually become a social studies teacher, as he felt that this was his calling at that time.
Charles married Irene Fredette on May 8th, 1965. Irene predeceased Charles on May 18th 2009 after 44 years of marriage.
Charles taught and coached sports at St Louis High School, to include coaching football with his good friend Bob Cote. When St Louis closed in 1970, Charles taught and coached sports at Biddeford High school until retirement.
Charles was very involved in his community and spiritual life. Charles was an actively practicing Catholic. He made his Cursillo in the 1970s. He was an active participant in daily Mass at Holy Martyrs Church in Falmouth. Charles was a devoted and long-time member of the Saturday morning Men's group. Charles was a long-term member of The Order of Secular Franciscans (SFO). Charles belonged to The Seven Joys of The Blessed Virgin Mary Fraternity that meets at St. Anthony's monastery in Kennebunk, Maine.
Charles gave his service to others in many different roles. Charles served as a Lay Chaplain at Mercy Hospital in Portland, provided Bible study at the Cumberland County Jail, was a spiritual companion to many people from many different walks of life. Charles was known to reach out to the poor and disadvantaged to personally and emphatically give them attention, compassion and hope.
Charles became a friend of Bill W. on July 20th, 1987 and was an active member of the Portland Recovery community. Charles lived his life and directed his actions based upon spiritual principles. He often quoted: "I am a spiritual being having a human experience."
Charles was predeceased by his wife, Irene, brothers Roland, Leopold, Norman, and sisters Marcelle, Rejeanne and Jocelyn.
Charles is survived by his brother, Donald Pinette of Saco, and many nieces and nephews. Charles was very grateful for a special relationship with his nephew Guy Gosselin.
Charles generously chose to donate his body to the Anatomical Donor Program at the University of New England.
Per Charles request, there will be no calling hours.
A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at Holy Martyrs Catholic Church, 266 Foreside Road, Falmouth, Maine on Tuesday, December the 9th at 1:00 pm with Fr Paul Marquis as the Celebrant.
Graveside services will be announced at a later date after Charles gift and commitment to The University of New England has been fulfilled. This commitment can be from 1 to 4 years.
Donations in his memory may be made to:
St Anthony Franciscan Friary
P.O. Box 980
Kennebunkport, Maine 04046
Catholic Charities of Maine
Development Office
P.O. Box 10660
Portland, Maine 04104-6060
The family conveys deep appreciation to:
Cheryl, for decades of caring support.
The Staff at 75 State Street (where Charles resided for 3 years and one month) for their attentive care and support.
Compassus, for their team approach in Hospice care, especially the Spiritual support, Charles really appreciated the spiritual support.
Charles spiritual family.
Charles recovery family.
God, for taking him home