Obituary of Charles Willis Rae

It is with appreciation for a life well-lived that the family of Charles W. Rae announces his passing, which occurred on Sunday, January 1, 2017 at Ridgewood Veteran’s Wing surrounded by those he loved. Born in Saint John, NB on September 7, 1920, he was a son of the late Gordon and Annie (Cheyne) Rae. Charles was the last surviving member of his immediate family. Charles was a loving father, grandfather and great grandfather who treasured the time spent with his family. He was a long-time member of Glen View United Church as well as an avid golfer. He was a member of Rockwood Park Golf Course, and played regularly until the age of 91. In September of 1986, he scored a hole in one on the 16th hole. Charles enlisted in the Canadian Armed Forces in 1940, and afterwards was posted in the Royal Canadian Artillery 3rd Anti-Tank Regiment. He landed on Juno Beach with his regiment in 1944 on D-Day. He was awarded the Knight of National Order of the Legion of Honour in May, 2015, which is the highest honour awarded by France for a veteran, as well as recognition in July, 2015 by Parks Canada as a Hometown Hero. Charles will be missed by his daughters, Jane Rae (Jim Hanley) and Beverly Pearson (Hedley); grandchildren, Jaime Trites (Shawn), Shawna Anderson (Steven), Steve Rae (Jen Parisella) and Haylee Rae; great grandchildren, Jagger, Paislee, Oakland and Hayes; beloved great grand puppy, Max; as well as many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Charles was predeceased by his beloved wife, Marion (Hayes) Rae; son, Stephen Rae; and his siblings, Helen, John, Gretta, Wendell and Hilda. Resting at Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, NB (634-7424) with visiting on Wednesday, January 4, 2017 from 4-8 pm. A celebration of his life will be held on Thursday, January 5, 2017 at 12:00 pm from Glen View United Church, 8 Upland Road, Saint John. Interment will take place at Ocean View Memorial Gardens. For those who wish, remembrances may be made to the John T. McMillan Foundation.