Charles Colella, veteran, retired cartographer

Charles Colella, 82, of Millsboro, formerly of Churchton, Md., passed away peacefully Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2024.

Charles was born in Washington, D.C., Feb. 21, 1942, son of the late Guy J. Colella and the late Josephine (Demma) Colella.

After high school, Charles served his country in the U.S. Coast Guard and was honorably discharged in 1964.

He later became a cartographer for the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, retiring in 2007.

Charles was a giving soul who enjoyed making others happy. Being unmarried, he spent a considerable portion of his adult life looking after his beloved mother, who had been widowed for many years. Although he didn't have children of his own, he was very close with his many nieces and nephews.

One of his favorite hobbies was photography, and he documented many family functions over the years. Charles was also an avid bird watcher, firearms enthusiast, and ancient astronaut theorist, as well as an amateur numerologist.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his four siblings, Guy J. (Doc) Colella Jr., Frank Colella, Clara Brewer and David C. Colella; his nephews, Robert Brewer and Guy F. Brewer; and his niece, Debra Colella.

Charles is survived by his nieces, Carol, Joann, Maria and Kathy; his nephews, Michael, Brian, Anthony, Daniel, Patrick and David; and his beloved caretaker and friend, Laura, whom Charles always referred to as his "girlfriend.”

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Charles’ name to The National Audubon Society, 225 Varick St., New York, NY 10014.

The family will have a celebration of life at a later date. 

Online condolences may be sent by visiting melsonfuneralservices.com.