Charles (Charlie) was born in Brooklyn, NY. The family moved to East Northport in 1967. At 4 yrs. old, Charles asked if there was a doctor for animals - he knew that is what he wanted to do. Charles made his way through Eastern NM Univ. in Portales, NM, where he met his wife, Kathy (Schweppe). Graduating in 1985 with a Bachelor of Science, he began a Master’s program at C.W. Post Univ. He paused schooling to marry Kathy in August,1988. Charles pursued his goal, graduating with Honors from Ross Univ. School of Veterinary Medicine, in January,1993.

After a brief position in Queens, Charles and Kathy moved to Austintown, OH. He worked at Animal Medical Care Center, then Austintown Veterinary Clinic. The couple welcomed the birth of their twin sons, Nicholas and Christopher in 1996. The family relocated back to LI, settling in Holbrook.

Charles purchased the Animal Medical Hospital of Centereach in 1998. His compassion and down to earth values for the well-being of the animals and their owners was bar none. He also owned and practiced at Pinewood Commons Veterinary Hospital in Ridge, from 2005 to 2016.

Several animals were brought home over the years, whether abandoned or to be put down. ‘The zoo’ grew-cats, dogs, iguanas, tortoises, snakes, birds and fish. Charles’ hobbies included breeding and selling snakes and koi. He also owned several German Shepherd’s (and other Shepherd breeds) over the years and enjoyed training with various groups.

While busy with his small and exotic animal practice, Charles felt the desire to assist defenseless animals and was a Suffolk Co. Peace Officer with the Suffolk Co. SPCA for several years. Charles also became the consulting veterinarian for the Suffolk County Police Dept. K9 unit. He loved those dogs, the officers, and the entire K9 family. He often quipped ‘Those are MY dogs, you know!’ and he cared for these dogs well over 20 years.

Freshwater bass fishing was his greatest joy. His favorite moments were fishing with the ‘legend’, Roland Martin, twice. His dear friend, Ralph, was his fishing buddy and they shared many memories and adventures, some quite hilarious. Fish on!

His love of the water also drove him to attain his ‘Captains’ license and he completed the US Coast Guard OUPV course and exam in 2022. ‘This is harder than veterinary school’ was his line every time he was charting a course on a map sprawled out on the dining room table.

Charles was incredibly talented when it came to cooking and the culinary world. He made his own pizzas, barbecued/grilled/smoked all kinds of meats, and was the true chef in the family. He dabbled in making and bottling his own red wines. Spicy was his ‘thing’ and there wasn’t a hot sauce or pepper he didn’t try. Some reactions were absolutely priceless! From rattlesnake in NM, ‘good for health’ mystery foods in Japan and coffees in Costa Rica, he savored all and enjoyed sharing the cuisines from across the globe with anyone willing to try.

Perhaps one of the most important times in his life is when he searched to find inner peace in recent years. Charles, interested in various cultures and teachings, began attending meditation classes at the Long Island Buddhist Meditation Center in Riverhead. He found tranquility and comfort and was welcomed into a very loving and kind community.

Charles truly cared about those close and family was not just about blood. ‘Daughter’ Lisa and the ‘grandchildren’ were a part of daily life. He was truly blessed to have them nearby.

Charles leaves behind his wife of 35 years, Kathy; his sons, Nicholas (& Glenn Elizabeth) of Buffalo, NY and Christopher of Holbrook; parents Charles & Rosalie of Commack; his brother Vincent (& Susan) of Concord, NC; sisters RoseAnn (& Nick) of Commack and Patricia, of Commack; his dearest Aunt Joan (& Buddy) Ferraro of Naples, FL; and many relatives and friends from near and far.

A ’Celebration of Life’ and service is being planned soon. Donations in Charles’ memory can be made to the Long Island Buddhist Meditation Center, 5268 Sound Ave., Riverhead, NY 11901

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