Charles Manuel Liappes

Charles Manuel Liappes, born January 10, 1940, in Hartford, Connecticut, a longtime resident of Portland for over 51 years, lived a life filled with adventure, music, dedication, laughter, and an unwavering love for his family. He graduated from Buckley High School in Hartford, Connecticut. He was known to many as Chuck, and Chuckster. He was a man who often said he had no regrets in life, and with good reason. He had traveled to places many people would never have the opportunity to see, experienced things most could only imagine, and made memories that would last a lifetime.

He proudly served as a member of the United States Air Force, during which time his travels took him to Okinawa, Japan, Hawaii, and Vietnam to name a few. He carried those experiences with him throughout his life and was always happy to share stories of the places he had been to and the things he had seen.

Music was another lifelong passion and one of his greatest gifts. A talented and professional saxophone player, he had a remarkable ability to bring music to life. He was a member of the Hartford-based band, The Moonriders, who recorded several records singles and performed throughout Connecticut, as well as other states. Chuck also performed in other countries while serving in the Airforce. During The Moonriders musical journey, the band had the opportunity to share the stage with some of the great names in music, including Connie Francis, Ritchie Valens, Buddy Holly, and the Big Bopper. He also had some rather extraordinary stories to tell, including the time Little Richard casually stopped by his house for drinks and the summer singer Bobby Darin spent at his home. These were just a few of the stories he would share, always with the kind of nonchalance that made them even more entertaining.

His love of music was passed down through generations. His son, Michael, became a talented drummer, while his daughter, Jennifer, found her own love of music through chorus and singing. That same love continues with his granddaughter, Amanda, who participates in Honors Chorus, Concert Choir, high school musicals, and the Shoreline Music Festival. His love for music never left him, and it will continue to live on through those he inspired.

Professionally, he dedicated an extraordinary 42 years to the Portland Police Department, retiring at the age of 76. His law enforcement career began with the Connecticut State Police in Rocky Hill, and throughout his years of service, he became known for his expertise with firearms and his exceptional abilities as a marksman. Many Portland residents will remember seeing him directing traffic during the repairs to the Arrigoni Bridge or assisting with traffic whenever road construction took place. He was a familiar and recognizable face in the community.

In addition to his law enforcement career, he worked for Daniel's Oil as an oil delivery driver, frequently operating the tandem truck, where his driving abilities were second to none. He also worked in Protective Services at Pratt & Whitney in Middletown, where he continued working until the age of 79. When the COVID-19 pandemic first struck and it became unsafe for him to continue working, he finally retired. No matter where he worked, he took pride in what he did.

Outside of work, he enjoyed the simple pleasures in life. He was an avid bowler who participated in numerous leagues throughout the years and never missed an opportunity to watch bowling on

television or cheer on his son, Michael, during his many bowling tournaments. It was fitting that bowling also played a part in one of the most important chapters of his life, as it was where he met the love of his life, Dorothy (Brown) Liappes, affectionately known as "Dort" and lovingly nicknamed "Ruby Begonia Brown" by him. They shared 43 wonderful years of marriage until her passing.

He was a devoted New York Giants and New York Yankees fan and enjoyed watching both the UCONN men's and women's basketball teams. He also had a lifelong love for the Connecticut shoreline. Taking drives to the beach with Dort was a cherished ritual, and he was fortunate to have been part of a family that always had a cottage at Chalker Beach in Old Saybrook. The shore held a special place in his heart and was the backdrop for many treasured memories.

Above all else, he was a family man. He was the kind of person who would give you the shirt off his back. He was kind, funny, generous, and always there for the people he loved.

When his granddaughter, Amanda, came into his life, he became known as "Poppy." He would proudly tell anyone who would listen, "She's my whole world." As the years went by, that special bond grew into something even more endearing, and he became "Poppy Punk Punk" to Amanda and simply "Punk" to his daughter, Jennifer. These special names represented a bond that was uniquely theirs, filled with love, laughter, and memories that will be treasured forever. His granddaughter was truly the light of his life.

He faced many health challenges in his later years, including Parkinson's disease, dementia, and ultimately liver failure. He was a fighter, and he fought for as long as he could. During his stay at Portland Care, he became a long-term resident of their 1st floor. His kindness and gentle nature never wavered, and he formed special connections with many members of the staff, who cared for him with compassion and affection.

He is survived by his son, Michael Liappes, and his wife, Karen (Morin) Liappes, of New Hampshire; his daughter, Jennifer (Liappes) Izzo, and her husband, Donald L. Izzo, of Westbrook, Connecticut; his cherished granddaughter, Amanda Lee Giliberto, of Westbrook, Connecticut; his bonus grandchildren, Margaret Izzo and Matthew Izzo, of Westbrook, Connecticut; his brother, Kenneth Liappes and his Life Partner, Judy Carino. He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews that he loved dearly.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 43 years, Dorothy (Brown) Liappes; his parents, Manuel Liappes and Virginia (Gaskas) Liappes; his sister, Elaine (Liappes) Maulucci; and his brother, Michael Liappes.

He was a husband, father, Poppy, and best friend. He lived a life full of stories, music, adventure, laughter, and love. He had no regrets, and those fortunate enough to have known him will have no shortage of wonderful memories to carry with them. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Portland Care and Rehabilitation, especially Stephanie, Donna, Country, Gregory, T, Thea, Marie, Marcia, Mariah, Shanda, Monica, Nikia, Stephanie, Rose, Joy, Roxanne, Katie, Krista, Danielle, Toni, and Daniel, for the kindness, compassion, and exceptional care they provided. A special thank you is also extended to Alea and Jenna P. of OptumCare. We are especially grateful to Jenna P. for her kindness, knowledge, honesty, and genuine compassion to our father. Your care and the love you showed him will never be forgotten.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, November 18th at Swan Funeral Home, 1224 Boston Post Road, Old Saybrook from 5:00 to 8:00 pm. A graveside service will be held at a later date.