Charles Thomas LaPlant, known affectionately as Charlie by those whose lives he brightened, embarked on his final journey on August 28, 2024, at the age of 65. With the same courage and resilience that marked his five-year battle against end-stage kidney disease, Charlie left this world in Poughkeepsie, NY, wrapped in the love of the family he cherished.

Funny, selfless, and loving are not just words that describe Charlie; they are the script of his life story, the punchlines to his many jokes, and the essence of his spirit that resonated with everyone lucky enough to know him. Charlie leaves behind his beloved leading lady and wife of 44 years, Juanita, his daughters, Elizabeth and Emily, his granddaughter Charlotte, and Matthew, his son-in-law-and-love. He also leaves his mom, Anne LaPlant, all of his siblings with a fan club of nieces, nephews, and their chorus of children, and Laurie and Douglas Woolever, family-in-law-and-love. These survive to carry on his legacy of love and laughter.

Born on December 18, 1958, in Rochester, NY, to his devoted mother, Anne LaPlant, and his late father, William LaPlant, Charlie was the proverbial sparkle amidst a grand ensemble cast of siblings – Stephen, June, John, Pegi, David, Bruce, Linda, Theresa, Kathy, Jodi, and Mary – all of whom tied the family bond with laughter and love (and hijinks).

Charlie possessed an extraordinary ability to mend anything broken, a skill only outshined by the fullness with which he gave his time and heart. Charlie spent nearly 25 years as a maintenance technician at the IBM in East Fishkill (which became a number of other companies over the years, finally landing as NXP), where he won a number of awards for excellence and was selected to compete in the Corporate QIC Competition. When the plant was closed, Charlie became the technical manager at Chuck E. Cheese, charming children and their families while keeping the circuitry working in animatronics and games alike until his health hurdles nudged him offstage.

Among the many hats (and Santa caps) Charlie wore, none brought him more joy than strumming on his 12-string guitar and getting people to sing (and dance) along. If you invited Charlie to your wedding, you could be sure he would instigate a conga-line. For a few years, the LaPlant-Woolever family traveled the area with their Praise and Worship band "Solomon's Porch."

Speaking of family performances, the Center for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck held a special place in Charlie's heart. He wasn't just assisting in the wings; his love for theatre shone through various cameos, from costuming sagas to onstage escapades. The show "Once" saw Charlie in his element, guitar in hand, alongside family members, illuminating the stage and creating irreplaceable memories.

His leisure pursuits weren't limited to musical marvels; Charlie adored spending time outside and introduced hoola-hoop golf to his backyard, designing a nine-"hole" course. He loved flying anything by remote control, playing yard games, or watching the birds and chickens. And who could forget the legendary game nights? With cards shuffled and hearts dealt, Charlie was the pinochle czar alongside his partner-in-crime and wife of many years, Juanita, against Emily and Matthew.

In his closing act, Charlie, a bona fide Santa's Helper, leaves his sleigh of joy and a lifetime of cherished moments for all who shared his journey. His final curtain call was taken with the dignity and humor that illuminated his life's stage – to a standing ovation from all who crossed his path. His passing isn't a tragedy; it's a celebration of a life well-played, full of quips, warmth, and an unwavering dedication to his most beloved production of all – his family.

So here's to Charlie, our very own Mr. Fix-It, whose heart and helping hands knew no equal. Like the most skilled comedian, he exits with an encore of smiles and the laughter of those he has left behind. Curtain down, applause eternal. Charlie, take your final bow; you've truly earned it.

Relatives and friends may call from 1pm to 3pm on Sunday, September 1, 2024, at Sweet's Funeral Home, inc., 4365 Albany Post Rd., Hyde Park, NY 12538.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers, please make donations to The Center for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck,  in Charlie's name. The Center was very important to Charlie and remains so for his family. Please support the arts. https://www.centerforperformingarts.org