1948 – 2013

LIVERMORE FALLS — Charles R. Smith, 65, of Livermore Falls, died peacefully at home, Sunday, Oct. 6, with his family by his side. Charlie lived an adventurous life with his lifelong partner and soul mate, Lorraine. He was a man true to himself, living life to the fullest and, unarguably, doing it “his” way every step of the way.

Charlie was born at Franklin Hospital in Farmington to Ralph and Olene (LaBlanc) Smith on Jan. 6, 1948, and was raised by adoptive parents Harris and Olive Bradeen of Canton. He graduated from Dixfield Regional High School in 1967, and later served in the Marine Corps. He worked in construction, was a machinist and an active welder for most his life.

Charlie had a true passion for the outdoors. He loved brook fishing and enjoyed random trips to Grand Lake Matagamon to fish, hike and enjoy life’s beauty. It wouldn’t be uncommon for he and Lorraine to strike cross-country with no particular destination, camping and exploring along the way. Whether it was gold-panning in the mountains of California, digging for sunstones in the Oregon deserts or finding arrowheads in the farmlands of the Carolinas, they loved the journey together.

Just like the fossil and artifact collections that adorn the walls of his home, he will leave a lasting imprint on the hearts of those who loved him. Charlie will be sadly missed by his lifelong companion and best friend, Lorraine McLennan; children, Sonya Somalis, Otis Smith, Melanie Hickey, Charles “Chuck” Smith II and fiancée, Amy Cote, Audrey Wade and husband, Lee, Heather McLennan and fiancé, Steve Bronish and Donnie McLennan and wife, Tina; siblings, Clarence Smith, Rene Lee, Scott Colton, Harris Bradeen Jr., Dottie Abbot and Phyllis Miller; and several grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends.

Charlie was predeceased by his parents, Olene (LaBlanc) Lee and Ralph Smith; adoptive parents, Olive and Harris Bradeen; sister, Ruth Parkman; brothers, Larry Smith and Harry Smith; and son-in-law, Ron Hickey.

Many thanks to members of Beacon Hospice for their services and endless support.

Words of condolence and tribute may be shared with Charlie’s family on his tribute wall at www.wilesrc.com.