Charles Wright Irwin

Charles Wright Irwin, born in Aberdeen, Maryland was 100 years old. Father, John L. Irwin, Mother, Mayfield Wright, Grandfather, Charles T. Wright, First Superintendent of Harford County Schools. Married Jacquelin Kelly in August 1950. Children Becky I. Dorothy of Bel Air, Maryland, Kelly C. Irwin and wife Denise of New London, North Carolina; Kevin L. Irwin and wife Dorothy of Bel Air. Grandchildren; Brooke I. Dorothy of Philadelphia; Brent C. Irwin of Virginia; Kyle R. Irwin of New Jersey.

Charlie graduated from Bel Air High School in 1935. He received a certificate from Peabody Conservatory, attended The Julliard School of Music, Western Maryland College and The American Theater Wing of New York City. He proudly served over four years in the 29th Infantry Division in WW II, three years in ETO and was awarded the Bronze Star. He went to New York in 1945 and auditioned for a Broadway show and was hired as the understudy to Gordon MacRae in “Three to Make Ready” starring Ray Bolger. The show ran for a year in New York and ten months on the road. When MacRae left for Hollywood, Charlie assumed his role. He was a featured singer in the “New Look Review” which featured Ed Winn and George Jessel. Irwin also appeared in “Where’s Charley” with Ray Bolger. He was under contract to Samuel Goldwin Studios and International Pictures but had no desire to go to Hollywood. He met Jackie Kelly in 1949 when she was a Conover Model and one of the famous “Copa Girls” at New York’s Copacabana. Married in 1950, Irwin decided show business was not conducive to a good family life and moved to Bel Air and began work at the Chesapeake Broadcasting Corporation. He left after 30 years, having served as vice president and sales manager. He and Jackie opened a new business, Charlie Irwin Advertising and Public Relations. Published several papers (TV Times and AD Wise). Also handled advertising for over 30 clients in Harford and Cecil Counties.

Other activities for which he participated included Past President of Bel Air Rotary Club, Scholarship Committee of Harford Community College: Partner in the Mayfield Development Company; Choir Director at Emmanuel Episcopal Church for 12 years and served as a member of the Vestry of Emmanuel. He was a member of Emmanuel Episcopal Church since 1951. Served two terms on the Harford County Democratic State Central Committee; was a member of the Harford County Highland Society and a member of the American Legion Posts 39 and 85, and the VFW Post 10113. In addition, Charlie served on the Board of Directors of the Chesapeake Broadcasting Corporation, Harford Bank (was one of the founders), Atlantic Federal Savings Bank, First Harford Federal Savings and Loan, and the advisory board of Susquehanna Bank, also Harford Memorial Hospital, Multiview Cable Company, Harford/ Cecil Salvation Army, Harford County Cancer Society and Harford County Office on Aging. He was selected as a Harford County Living Treasure in 1981. Listed in Who’s Who in commerce and Industry. Participated in the Senior Olympic Track and Field Events for over 30 years and was nationally listed in the top ten in six events: High Jump, Javelin, Discus, Triple Jump, Long Jump and Shot Put. He continued competing until he was 95. Also listed in the Who’s Who in the National Senior Games.

Charlie and his wife traveled the world. They took several trips to Ireland, Scotland, and England with their children and grandchildren. There were trips at Christmas every year to a different island in the Caribbean and Bahamas.

Irwin remembers building Route 40 with a pick and shovel in the 1930’s. Said of his high school days.. I enjoyed athletics and girls but not necessarily in that order. He had a marvelous sense of humor. He was humble, generous, kind, sincere, supportive, hard working, honest, and was well known for his character and integrity. He led by example and was an incredible inspiration to his family. He had a profound love for his wife, children and grandchildren who were all extremely proud of all his accomplishments.

A Memorial Service will be held at Emmanuel Episcopal Church 303 Main St. Bel Air, MD 21014 on Monday December 4, 2017 at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Emmanuel Episcopal. Online tributes may be left at www.Schimunekfuneralhomes.com.