Charlie Fertitta, a Port Washington resident for 30 years, passed away on Sept. 14. Born on May 2, 1930, in Astoria, Queens, he devoted his life to his passions, family, music, boating, community service and faith. As a young trumpet player, he led his own band and continued his interest in later life by participating in several bands, including the Community Band and the Pilsner Band, both of which played summer concerts at the Sousa Band Shell.
Charlie was a life-long boater on Long Island Sound waterways and a proud member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary for 50 years. Opening a contracting business in Corona, Queens, led him to join the Corona Lions Club where he remained a member until his death. He was a faithful participant at the 10 a.m. mass at Our Lady of Fatima in Manorhaven.A father of five, Charlie instilled in his children a love of family. One of his oft repeated mantras was “a man’s true wealth is measured by the number of grandchildren he has,” and he has 28! His invitations always included an offer of his famous grilled cheese sandwiches and holiday meals were never without his hot dog and pizza appetizers. His family will always cherish his tradition of playing the trumpet at family weddings, Father’s Day outings on the Key of Sea, trophies at Christmas and the pride with which he spoke of his “five jewels.”
He leaves his wife, Lee, (retired) librarian at the Port Washington Public Library, his children (JoAnn, Carol, Charles A., Robert and Stefanie), his former wife, Ann, and all those grand- and great grandchildren. He is deeply missed.
