Charles Martin Konefal, (Charlie), also known affectionately as “Chasles” by his family, passed away peacefully on August 26, 2023, at the age of 85 at Apple Rehab in Middletown, CT. 

Charlie was born on July 10, 1938, in Middletown, CT, to Martin and Helen (Giesbrandt) Konefal. He  is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Schreier Konefal, his son Timothy Konefal and significant other Lena Holt, his daughter Melissa Konefal, and his sister and brother-in-law Jean and Ray Skurzewski, and several nieces and nephews.

He  also loved his kitties, especially his favorite Tuxedo cat Annie.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Donald Konefal, and one nephew.

In terms of education, Charlie attended Woodrow Wilson High School and went on to pursue higher education at Middlesex Community College and Central Connecticut State University, where he earned a Masters Degree in Education. He utilized his education and skills as a vocational instructor and substitute teacher. He was also trained in HVAC and worked as a plumber and oil burner technician. During his life, Charlie worked at various jobs, including as a milkman, and he enjoyed sharing funny stories of his experiences. He dedicated his time as a literacy volunteer and ESL instructor, always willing to help others.

Charlie had a lifelong love of learning and studied various subjects, including math, English Language, and poetry by esteemed writers such as Carl Sandburg and Walt Whitman. He had a great sense of humor and was known to share a laugh or tell a corny joke. Charlie was also a handyman who enjoyed using his tools to fix and build things.

He had a deep love for music and enjoyed playing guitar. He enjoyed listening to big band and jazz music such as Count Basie and Les Paul and Mary Ford(one of his favorite songs that will be associated with him being “How High The Moon.”) Additionally, he had a passion for collecting, especially vintage and signed books, and coins. Charlie found joy in reading, watching old Western and War movies, and tuning in to TV shows such as "The Andy Griffith Show," "Gunsmoke," and "Everybody Loves Raymond."

Charlie's religious affiliation included St. Paul Lutheran Church and Grace Lutheran Church, both located in Middletown, CT. As per his wishes, no services are planned at this time, but a gathering or memorial service may be held in the future to celebrate his life.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Alzheimer's Association(P.O. Box 96011 Washington, DC 20090-6011), Middlesex Hospital Hospice and Palliative Care (28 Crescent St. Middletown, CT 06457) or Literacy Volunteers of Central Connecticut (20 High Street, New Britain, CT 06051), organizations that held special meaning to Charlie.

His family wishes to thank all the wonderful caregivers at Apple Rehab Middletown.

Charlie's memory will forever be cherished by those who knew and loved him. His dedication to education, helping others, and his sense of humor will be remembered fondly. 

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