THOMASTON — Charles W. Adams III, 58, formerly of Pembroke, Mass., died unexpectedly Jan. 19, 2013, at Pen Bay Medical Center in Rockport.

Born Dec. 24, 1954 in Wilkes Barre, Pa., he was the son of Charles, Jr. and Mary Bertolet Adams. Charlie grew up in Hanover, graduating from Hanover High School in 1973.

Following graduation, he attended Butera School of Art in Boston, where he studied sign painting. Charlie was employed in that field for a short time, but continued with his art as a hobby throughout his life.

On Sept. 1, 1984, Charlie married the love of his life, Donna J. DeGrenier, at his family's home in Hanover. Together they made their home in Pembroke for more than 25 years. For his entire career, Charlie was employed with BFI/Allied Waste as a truck driver, retiring just last year.

Always the artist, he had an artistic eye for everything. His daughter-in-law said everything he touched was a work of art, right down to the woodwork in his home. He loved picking out paint colors and studying architecture.

In his earlier years, Charlie had a passion for riding motorcycles, even taking one on his honeymoon. Later on, as his family grew, he fostered his love of the ocean and boating. For the past 15 years he enjoyed boating with his family on their Cape Cod Cat boat, first the Onkahye, a hand-me-down from his father, and later on the Faustina his pride and joy. He was also an avid reader, especially anything about boats or the ocean.

Charlie also loved trains. Together with his family, he made many trips to Pennsylvania studying the railroads along the way. His son said they made many great friends during those trips.

In October 2012, Charlie and Donna accomplished their dream of moving to Maine. Just last week they purchased a home here and he was looking forward to establishing himself in the community. Charlie enjoyed spending time with the coffee club at F&A's Market in Thomaston and volunteering his time at Sharp's Point South in Rockland.

Predeceased by his parents, Charlie is survived by his wife, Donna of Thomaston; his son, Charles Adams IV and his wife, Sara, of Kingston, Mass.; his brother, William Adams and his companion, Dottie MacDermit, of Rockland, Mass.; his sister, Susan Johnson and her husband, Stephen, of Rockland, Mass.; his mother-in-law, Mary C. DeGrenier of Carver, Mass.; as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and a large extended family.

A celebration of his life will be held Saturday, Jan. 26, at 11 a.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church in Rockland, Mass.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hurricane Island Outward Bound School, 39 Mechanic St., Suite 310, Camden, ME 04843.

To share a memory or condolence with Charlie's family, visit his Book of Memories at www.bchfh.com.

Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home in Rockland, Maine.