Charles Fredrick Towse, Sr., 79, passed away on Thursday, April 20, 2017 at Baystate Noble Hospital. He was born in Woburn, MA to the late Donald M. and Regina (Corliss) Towse. Charlie served in the United States Army from 1954-1957, and then he enjoyed a very successful career in marketing.  He was employed by Firestone Tire and Kelley-Springfield Tire companies before joining Toyo Tire.  During his 30 years at Toyo, he was Director of Sales for the Eastern Division and earned many national sales awards. Upon retiring, he and his wife Chris spent four years living in their home in Hawaii before returning to Westfield where they spent over 40 years of their lives.  Charlie was a passionate runner, and a world class athlete.  He competed in many 5k & 10K races, Half Marathons, Duathlons, and Triathlons.  His career highlights include: competing in the Boston Marathon; placing 1st in his age group for Team U.S.A. at the 2008 Duathlon World Championships in Rimini Italy.  Most recently, he qualified for the 2017 Duathlon World Championships in Canada. He was a long-time member of the Greater Springfield Harriers Running Club and was a welcome face at the Empire One Running Club's weekly races at both Stanley Park and Ashley Reservoir.  Charlie and Chris loved to travel. They toured across the US, Europe and Asia.  A life-long learner, Charlie was an avid reader, he enjoyed classical music, and loved spending time on his boat. His family will miss his infectious smile and will forever cherish fond memories of a life well lived. Charles is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Christine A. (Armey) Towse, his nine loving children, Charles F. Towse, Jr. and his wife Merry of Westfield, Virginia E. Schnabel and her husband Alan of St. Robert, Missouri, Donald M. Towse of Amherst, MA, Daniel T. Towse and his wife Alyson of New York City, Douglas A. Towse and his wife Kristine of West Springfield, MA, Carolyn T. Florek and her husband Jeffrey of Southampton, Jonathan E. Towse of Westfield, Theodore F. Towse of Nashville, TN and Regina L. Tallona and her husband Carl of Chicopee, two sisters, Jean “Sue” Cook and her husband Bradford and Virginia Reinhart, all of Boyden Beach, FL, sixteen grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Besides his parents Charles was predeceased by two sisters, Carol Hovasse and Beverly Bucci. His funeral will be held on Tuesday at 11AM in the Firtion Adams FS, 76 Broad St. Westfield, MA, burial will be at the convenience of his family. Visiting hours will be held on Monday from 4-7PM in the funeral home. www.firtionadams.com.

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