Charles Francis Rowe

Charles Francis Bard Rowe (Charlie, Chuck, or Charlie-Chuck), 84, died on September 3, 2026 at home after a recent hospitalization for congestive heart failure. He was born on June 7, 1942 to Sylvia Bard (later Merryman) and Roger Francis Bard. However, he was raised by, and later adopted by, Sylvia’s sister Violet and her husband Guy Rowe of Freeport. He grew up on Bow Street in the house next to the railroad tracks. As a kid he would go across the street to the RR station to “help” push the baggage carts.

Music was a joy in his life, starting with piano lessons with Mrs. MacKinnon. As a teen he played piano and organ at both Freeport and South Freeport Congregational churches. He also played saxophone from elementary school through to the Freeport Alumni Band.

Charlie left school to join the Air Force, serving at Otis Air Force Base, Biloxi Miss., and in the Philippines. After the service his work career was as an electronic technician at various companies, the last being Headlight AV.

Charlie was pre-deceased by all of his parents and stepparents and his half-sisters Linda Irving and Brenda Crook.

He is survived by his brother Allen Bard of Kentucky; his wife of 34 years Susan; his daughter Christine Edson; step-children Cheryl (Dave) Crowley, Scott (Lissa) Lewis, and Shelly Lake; nephews and niece Joseph and Rachel Bard and Brian Beshear; many cousins; 2 grandsons; 10 step-grands; 7 step-great grands (and one more on the way); and his lifelong friend Mike Fusonie.

A graveside service for family will be held at Burr Cemetery in Freeport. A time for fellowship and remembrance will be held at First Parish Church, 116 Main Street, Yarmouth in Fellowship Hall at 2 PM on Saturday September 19, 2026.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland, PO 336, Westbrook, ME 04098, in memory of Charlie’s buddies, Baxter and Max.