FRIENDSHIP — Charles W. Lash, 71, died Wednesday, October 14, 2020 at Maine Medical Center in Portland with his loving family at his side.

Born in Rockland, February 18, 1949, he was the son of Harold W. and Elsie Bond Lash. Charles was educated in Friendship schools, and graduated from Waldoboro High School with the class of 1968. Following high school, Charles served in the U.S. Army in Vietnam. Upon his honorable discharge, he returned home to his beloved Friendship.

Always a hard worker, he began his career working with his father in the family business, Sprowl and Lash Building Supply. He went on to work for John Reed where he learned the building trade. Later when Mr. Reed
retired, Charlie stayed on, continuing to work with his son Arnold Reed.

Having learned the skills of the trade, Charles went to work for himself, as a self-employed carpenter. Charlie’s sisters remember he loved to build things and work with his hands. Spending his childhood watching and helping his father build lap strake skiffs in the basement, he could often be found drawing boats, even at the tender age of seven. Later in life he built several skiffs of his own, even using one to lobster during his high school years. Never one to be idle, Charlie only stopped working due to his health.

During retirement, Charlie could be seen riding around Friendship, making several stops each day at Wallace’s Market to visit and talk with friends. When not busy working he enjoyed trips up north, snowmobiling and hunting in Rangeley and Moosehead with friends and family.

He will be sadly missed by all who loved him.

Predeceased by his parents, and many aunts and uncles, and several cousins, Charles is survived by his sisters, Nancy Lehman and her husband James, Joanne Genthner and her husband Rodney; his niece and nephew, Brooke Genthner and her son Kaden Genthner, and Rodney Genthner II; several aunts and uncles, many cousins, including one special cousin, Brenda Winslow, all of Friendship; as well as many friends.

A graveside service will be held  Monday, October 19, 2020 at 2 p.m., at Old Village Cemetery, Main Street, Friendship (Behind the Methodist Church). Due to Covid-19 restrictions all are encouraged to bring portable seating and wear a mask.

To share a memory or condolence with the Lash family, please visit their Book of Memories at www.bchfh.com. Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland.