Charles was born in Nyack, NY, was raised in Orangeburg, and attended Tappan Zee High School. After some semesters of college, Charles moved to New York City, where he began a career as an actor and restaurant manager. Returning to school, he earned an associate degree at NYU and a Bachelor's of Business Administration at Baruch College. He began a second career as an IT specialist, first at The Association of International Certified Professional Accountants (AICPA), then at Legal Services NYC.
Charles's partner, Duane Dirks, passed away in 1990. He remained close to the Dirks family, traveling to Kansas for the funerals of both of Duane's parents.
In 1995, Charles and Eric began their lives together in Jackson Heights, Queens, in an apartment that Charles spent years turning into a showplace. They were married in 2014.
Charles was a marvelous cook and host, and his elaborate holiday meals are remembered fondly by everyone who attended one. He loved to travel, and had visited most countries in Europe.
Charles is survived by his spouse, Eric Peterson and in-laws David (father) and Samuel (brother) of Durham, NC. He is also survived by his brother Richard (Dorothy) of Roscoe, NY, his beloved nieces, Samantha Keiser Olson (Branden, Olivia and Jackson) and Allison Keiser (John McCarthy), and many loving friends and family members.
Memorial donations are appreciated and can be made to City Harvest, God's Love We Deliver, Gay Men's Health Crisis, New York Cares or the charity of your choice.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.conwayfh.com for Charles and his family.
