Charles “Charlie” A. Shimkus, Jr., 77, of Highland Park Road, passed away quietly at his home surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, October 10, 2013. He was born January 18, 1936 in Worcester, the son of Charles A., Sr. and Blanche (Kilmonis) Shimkus.

     Charlie attended Classical High School and was an active member of the swim team of the Worcester Boys Club. After high school, he entered the U.S. Marine Corp where he proudly served his country during the Korean Conflict, earning the rank of Sergeant before he was honorably discharged. He worked at Wyman-Gordon in Worcester for many years, then at Truk-Away in West Boylston for 28 years before returning to Wyman-Gordon until he retired in 1999. After his retirement Charlie was busier than ever. His focus was all about his family, whether hauling hay or remodeling a bathroom with one of his children. Charlie loved to take road trips with his wife around New England to enjoy the beautiful scenery.

     He leaves his loving wife of 56 years, Barbara Ann (Murphy) Shimkus; his daughter, Debra Ann Tambollio and her husband, Michael of North Brookfield; his son, Michael Anthony Shimkus and his wife, Teresa of Princeton; his daughter, Diane Carol Coderre and her husband, Steven of Fremont, NH; his son, John Joseph Shimkus of Rutland; and his six precious grandchildren, Charlie, Josh, Matthew, Ben, Kasey Marie and Travis. He was predeceased by his sister, Joan Wilkey.

     Friends and relatives are invited to attend calling hours on Sunday, October 13, from 4 to 6 p.m., at the Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main St., Holden. The funeral and interment at Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton will be private. Memorial donations may be made to VNA Care Hospice, Development Office, 120 Thomas St., Worcester, MA 01608-1280.