Charles Felix Dodson
November 22, 1923 - August 11, 2010
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Charles Felix Dodson
November 22, 1923 - August 11, 2010
Obituary
Charles F. Dodson, a resident of Falmouth, Massachusetts, devoted husband, father and grandfather, passed peacefully with his family by his side in Mission Hospital, Mission Viejo, California on August 11th.
Born in McMinnville, Tennessee, son of Venus and Mariah Dodson he was raised in Tennessee. He attended Cumberland University and the University of North Carolina. He enlisted in the Navy in 1941. While serving in the North Atlantic in 1942, he survived the sinking of the USS Pollux off the coast of Newfoundland. Thereafter, he was accepted into the Naval Aviation Cadet program, received his wings and commission in November 1943, and served in the South Pacific area. After his discharge in the Naval Air Corp in 1945, Mr. Dodson remained in the active Naval Reserve until 1964.
Following his Active Military service, he earned a Juris Doctor Degree from Northeastern University and helped establish the law firm of Wolfson, Dodson, Keenen and Cotton. He actively practiced Law with this firm in Worcester, MA until 1998.
Since 2003, after forming the Hermann Foundation, a well-known charitable group that has provided significant contributions to public charities, Attorney Dodson served as president and also on the board of directors.
An avid golfer and traveler, he was a member of the Woods Hole, MA Golf Club and the Bella Colina Golf Club in San Clemente, California. He vacationed in California and Spain.
Charles is survived by his wife of 67 years Phyllis Argento Dodson; daughters, Maria Dodson Starzyk and Melissa Dodson; granddaughters Kerry E. Starzyk and Jennifer L. Starzyk and son-in-law Edward S.Starzyk and many nieces and nephews.
Private services were held in California and a celebration of Charles’ life will be held at a later date.
28 responses to Charles Felix Dodson
Jay Madaus says:
August 16, 2010
I am sorry for your loss. Charlie, or ” Mr D” as we often called him was a true gentleman. He always had a smile and a warm hello. He took the time to help me as a young lawyer and provided great advice. I will miss him.
Jim Gregerson says:
August 16, 2010
Charlie: You are in a better place. We will miss you. You always had that warm smile and humor. Your golfing friend! Jim Gregerson
Kathleen Allard Madaus says:
August 16, 2010
Dear Phyllis and family,
I was sadden to hear of Charlie’s death and so very sorry. Helen Repoza, your Falmouth neighbor, called me and I called my children. My son Jay was doing business with Charlie’s old firm today and mentioned how awful to hear of Charlie’s death and Charlie’s old firm was surprised, shocked and very sad. Jerry introduced me to both of you in 1975 at Bud and Carol’s home. You were a stunning and happy couple. We enjoyed our wonderful friendship which continued when we bought our home in Falmouth MA. I will miss him.
You and Charlie and your 67 year love affair was always the envy of all of us. Charlie told me that when you met, it was love at first sight for both of you…your Chas. You were blessed to have each other. God rest his honorable soul. I will pray for your peace of mind and heart.
PS Last month my son Michael was sworn in as a Judge in Worcester and he said “all I am taking to the Court House is my oriental rug and Charlie Dodson’s desk.” I looked forward to telling Charlie…
Ruth Provost says:
August 16, 2010
The directors and staff of the Boys & Girls Club of Cape Cod send their deepest sympathy on the loss of Mr. Dodson. He was a caring friend to us and to our kids and will be missed.
Art Howard says:
August 17, 2010
Charlie was one of my favorite golfing friends. He had a warm personality, friendly to all, and fun to be with. I will miss him.
My deepest sympathy to Phyllis and the family.