ROCKLAND — Charlie M. Lawry, 62, died Oct. 5, 2015, at the Sussman House in Rockport, after a long and gallant battle with cancer. Throughout his illness, Charlie was concerned more for those around him than for himself.

Born in Rockland on July 31, 1953, he was the son of the Rev. Milton W. and Kathleen R. Proctor Lawry.

While growing up in Rockland, Charlie attended local schools and was a 1971 graduate of Rockland District High School. In May of 1972, he enlisted in the United States Navy. At one point during his military service, he served in Vietnam aboard the USS America and discovered that his brother Bill was to be one of his shipmates. Upon his discharge from active duty in 1975, Charlie continued service with the Navy Reserve.

He worked several years as a production specialist at FMC Biopolymer in Rockland.

Charlie had long been active in the community, helping in any way possible. He was a long-time active member of VFW Post No. 3911, Winslow-Holbrook-Merritt American Legion Post No. 1, Rockland and Rockland Lodge of Elks, No. 1008.

He enjoyed playing horseshoes, fantasy football and was an avid NASCAR enthusiast.

Charlie was most happy when surrounded by his family and friends.

Predeceased by his parents; Charlie is survived by his son, Todd and his wife, Brianne, and their children, Abigail P., Allyson K., Garett I., Ashleigh M. and Gavin R. Lawry; his stepchildren, Alan Kunesh of Searsmont, Mark Kunesh of Warren, Angela Simmons of Rockland and  Jessica Morang of Rockland; two brothers, William L. Lawry and Thomas S. Lawry, both of Rockland; one sister, Ruth N. Gagnon of Thomaston; 16 grandchildren; as well as extended family members and friends.

Friends and relatives are invited to visit Wednesday, Oct. 14 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock St. in Rockland. The color guard of American Legion Post No. 1 will stand honors. Officers of the Rockland Lodge of Elks No. 1008 will present an Elks Memorial Service at 6 p.m. A funeral service will be held Thursday, Oct. 15 at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment with military honors will follow in Achorn Cemetery on Old County Road in Rockland. A reception will follow at American Legion Post No. 1 on Veterans Memorial Drive in Rockland.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Sussman House, c/o Pen Bay Healthcare Foundation, 22 White Street, Rockland, ME 04841.