TOPSHAM — Charles Norman Payne Jr. departed this life peacefully at home surrounded by his family on May 12th, 2017. He is predeceased by his parents Charles Paine Sr. and Floris Garland, also a half-sister Theresa Paine Black of Florida. His wife, Frances Payne passed away in September of 2013.

He is survived by a son, Charles III, a daughter, Kathleen Payne Schofield, a grandson, Alexander James Schofield, and a half-brother, Edward Paine of Bar Harbor, as well as an aunt, Eva Bjork in South Carolina.

Charles was born in Bar Harbor April 24th, 1925. He served honorably in the United States Navy during WWII. He was part of an underwater demolition team (UDT) that cleared underwater mines and coralheads. He was in the reserves during the Korean War.

Charles owned and operated a general store and grill in Topsham for several years. He also worked at Jay Brush Corp. before being hired at the Topsham Post Office where he retired after 22 years. He was interim Post Master there for several years as well.

Charles and his wife Frances were among the founding parents of the Independence Association, originally named the Youth Development Center for Retarded Children. The name changed many times, but the focus remained on serving mentally and physically challenged individuals in the region. The organization grew substantially over the years with multiple properties serving many special needs clients of all ages.

Charles was the 1st commander of Legion Post 202 in Topsham and remained a member throughout his life. He was also a Master Mason in the Brunswick Masonic

Lodge for many years.

After retiring, he remained busy with family activities and projects around the home. He enjoyed going out to lunch with family and friends as well as several vacation trips to Florida, Virginia, and Nova Scotia.

Later, after his wife passed away, he became a member of the 55 Plus writers group, writing many poems and stories some of which were published in their monthly paper. He also had some writing published in a book named “Journeys and Reflections” along with other members of the “Write On Writers.”

Charles was a caregiver to his wife Frances in her later years. They both enjoyed the company of their grandson as well. He sang in the church choir for several years and played the harmonica for his family. He fed wild birds and chipmunks until he could no longer walk outside. He also enjoyed reading, doing crossword puzzles, woodworking projects, and enjoyed oil painting.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Independence Association, 87 Baribeau Dr., Brunswick, ME 04011

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.FuneralAlternatives.net.

Arrangements are under the care of Funeral Alternatives, 155 Bath Rd. Brunswick.