Charles H. Cavanaugh
Charles H. “Charlie” Cavanaugh, 83, a life-long resident of Rome, NY passed away after a brief illness on October 10, 2020 at the Abraham House Rome.. He was born July 2, 1937 to the late Charles J. and Doris Bourgeois Cavanaugh, who lovingly nick-named him “Sonny.”
Charlie was a proud veteran having served in the United States Army as well as the Air Force Reserves. He took pleasure in sharing the many memories of time spent in the military. Charlie continued his service to the public as a fireman in the City of Rome Fire Department. He retired from the Fire Department in 1984. After retirement, Charlie enjoyed driving both school and tour buses for Birnie Bus Service in Rome.
Throughout his entire life, Charlie was passionate about almost anything with a motor. He was exceptionally fond of tractors and favored the classic John Deere models. He refurbished and possessed many of these over the years. He also built a wealth of cherished memories in his favorite small towns of West Leyden, Boonville, and his beloved Lyons Falls, NY.
He was preceded in death by his first and forever love, Carole Weiler Cavanaugh, a brother, Kenneth Cavanaugh, and two sisters, Cathy Early, and Charlotte Fisher. He is survived by his three daughters, Crystal Mehl with whom he resided for the past several years, Colleen (Joe) Siegel, and Christine “Tina” (Shawn) Griffin; two sisters Carol (Ronald) Walker, and Joan Tonon and several special nephews and nieces. Also surviving are six grandchildren; Melissa (Tim) Ronchi, Amanda (Alan) VanScooter, Travis (Brienna) Mehl, Margo Siegel, Brad Griffin, and Rachael (Ory) Petty; and his great-grandchildren, Avery, Abbey, Natalie, Weston, Emily, Ryker, Ellie, and Everette. Charlie often spoke of how lucky he was to live long enough to have so many beautiful great-grandchildren.
Charles’ family would like to thank the nurses of Oneida County Hospice, especially Annie and Beverly, whom he adored. They would also like to thank the nurses and staff of The Rome Home (Abraham House-Rome) for their wonderful care and compassion, and Karen Abbott for her kindness and care while he was home.
Bottini Funeral Home has been entrusted with his care. Due to the concerns of COVID-19, there will be no visitation or services at this time. Charlie will be interred in the privacy of his immediate family at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, VA at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate your consideration of a donation in Charles’ name to The Abraham House-Rome, 417 N. Washington St., Rome, NY 13440, or to Hospice and Palliative Care of Oneida County.