Avid collector of antiques, clocks and memorabilia
Published November 8, 2018
NORTH READING — Charles P. Emma, 81, of North Reading, formerly of Winthrop, died Wednesday, October 31, 2018 at the Sawtelle Family Hospice House in Reading.
Born in Boston on September 22, 1937, he was the son of the late Philip and Vincenzia (Micciche) Emma. He was a graduate of Northeastern University, Wentworth Institute and Harvard University, where he received his master’s degree in Education.
Charles was a lab technician at the Harvard University School of Public Health, under the direction of Dr. Jean Mayer. He later worked at the Belmonte Middle School in Saugus as a school administrator. He has been retired for the past 20 years.
Charles was a man of strong faith who cherished and valued his family deeply. He was kind and generous to all who knew him. He had a passion for life and was an excellent role model for all. Charles was an avid collector of antiques, clocks and memorabilia. He was able to restore them to their original beauty. He enjoyed taking trips with the love of his life, Joanne, in their motor home.
Charles was resident of North Reading and a member of St. Theresa’s Church for 52 years. He was a member of the National Clock Association, Family Motor Coach Association and Model Train Association.
Family members include his loving wife of 59 years, Joanne L. (Siciliano) Emma; daughters, Debra A. Emma and Michelle Carr of Portsmouth, N.H., Tracy O’Rourke and her former husband Kerry of Merrimack, N.H., Karen E. Caouette and her husband Ronald of Derry, N.H., who was like a son to him; sister, Lillian Fassino and her husband Edward of South Natick; four grandchildren, Emma Kate O’ Rourke, Tyler J. Caouette, Ryan M. O’Rourke and Ally E. Caouette; special friend, Diane Carleton of Derry, N.H. and Calif., two nieces, three nephews, and his loving Yorkie, Peanut.
His funeral was held on Monday, November 5 from the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading, followed by a funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter Street (Rte. 62), North Reading. Calling hours were held on Sunday, November 4. Burial was in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading.
Memorial donations may be made in loving memory of Charles P. Emma to: Sawtelle Family Hospice House, 320 Haverhill Street, Reading, MA 01867. www.croswellfuneralhome.com
