Charles Henry Wellens

Charles Henry Wellens, age 80, of Palm Bay, Florida, formerly of Westminster, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on November 28, 2025. Born in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Charles grew up all over the country as part of a military family, but he always considered San Diego, California his true home. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Christine Dail Wellens, the great love of his life, and he now rests reunited with her once more.

Charles proudly devoted 31 years of his life to serving his country in the United States Navy, including assignments aboard the USS Fiske and USS Hanson. He retired with the rank of Commander, a title he carried with quiet pride and deep honor. His service was one of the great cornerstones of his life, and he spoke often and proudly of the years he gave in dedication to his country.

While continuing his commitment to the United States Navy Reserves, Charles devoted more than 30 years teaching at Fitchburg State University. He proudly balanced two lifelong callings—service to his country and service to his students. Teaching was far more than a profession; it was truly his passion. He took great joy in sharing his knowledge, mentoring young minds, and shaping the futures of countless students, leaving an enduring legacy that extended far beyond the classroom.

Charles is survived by his beloved daughters, Alyssa Wellens-Sury of Palm Bay, Florida, and Gretchen Wellens of Wakefield, Massachusetts; his cherished stepdaughters, Paula McGuirk and her husband Patrick McGuirk of Westminster, Massachusetts, and Cindy Vincent of Cape Coral, Florida; his grandchildren, Jeffrey Vincent and his wife Rebecca, Brian Vincent, Danielle Vincent, Brenden McGuirk, and Riley McGuirk; and his treasured great-grandchildren, Landon Vincent, Carter Vincent, and Lailah Webb.

To know Charles was to love him. He was social, charismatic, and truly the life of the party—someone who could light up a room simply by walking into it. Family was always his number one priority, and his love for them was fierce and unwavering. He had a way of making everyone feel special, seen, and cared for.

He was famous for his beloved “Charlieisms,” greeting people as “Hoss” or “Coliga,” and affectionately referring to every cat or dog—no matter their real name—as “tom cat” or “hound dog.” He loved talking about the weather, often joking with relief about how thankful he was that it “wasn’t going to snow in Florida.” A devoted sports fan, he especially loved cheering on the New England Patriots. He delighted in hosting cookouts, bringing family and friends together over good food, laughter, and stories.

Above all else, Charles was a devoted and exceptional father. He was kind, but firm when needed; nurturing, yet strong. His children always knew they were protected, supported, and unconditionally loved. He worked tirelessly to provide for his family and led by example through hard work, integrity, and sacrifice. He was, in every sense of the word, “Dad”—steady, dependable, loving, and always there when it mattered most.

His grandchildren were the absolute light of his life. Every time they entered the room, his face would instantly light up with joy. He took immense pride in each of them, celebrating their accomplishments, encouraging their dreams, and loving them without limits.

Charles will be remembered for his extraordinary kindness, his quiet generosity, his unwavering work ethic, and his unbreakable love for his family. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched—as a naval officer, a professor, a father, a grandfather, and a friend.