Charles O. Dufresne, 93, of Worcester, passed away peacefully at Albany Medical Center Jan. 17, 2024 with family at his side.

He was born May 29, 1930, in Manhattan, the son of Charles Dufresne and Guelli (Strom) Dufresne. Guelli emigrated from Gothenburg, Sweden, as a teenager. Charles was always proud of his Swedish heritage.

His family moved to Worcester in 1938, settling on a farm on West Hill. Charles graduated from Worcester Central School and served in the United States Marines during the Korean War, retiring as sergeant.

He married Marilyn E. Wright Oct. 19, 1955.

Charles was a 37-year member of Worcester Fire Department, serving 12 years as first assistant chief. He was a New York State fire instructor for 18 years. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church for 50-plus years where he served as elder, treasurer, trustee, and choir member. He was a member of the Second Baptist Church and belonged to the American Legion and Worcester Grange #1274.

He enjoyed gardening, hunting, fishing, woodworking, gourmet cooking and walking his dog, Holly. After a career with American Finance, he joined Key Bank as branch manager.

One of his other passions was singing. He sang in the chorus of Glimmerglass Opera productions H.M.S. Pinafore, Don Giovanni, Eugene Onegin and La Boheme. He also sang with Catskill Choral Society, Susquehanna Chorus, and Worcester Community Chorale.

Charles inspired younger amputees and other residents of Cooperstown Center with his steadfast determination. His prosthetic leg will be donated to another amputee, perhaps in Madagascar.

As he took his final breath, his son-in-law said, "Take off your uniform Marine, your work is done."

Charles and Marilyn would have celebrated their 69th anniversary this year.

Survivors include his wife Marilyn; daughters, Deborah Dufresne of Utica and Michele (Craig) Black of Virginia Beach; brothers, Jerry (Carol), Jimmy, Harry (Judy), Robert, and a sister, Gerd.

He was predeceased by sisters Goldie and Jane.

A memorial service will be 1 p.m., Thursday, January 25, 2024 at the Second Baptist Church, 132 Main St., Worcester, with the Rev. Judith A. Thistle, officiating.

There will be no calling hours.

Interment with military honors at the Maple Grove Cemetery, Worcester, will be 11 a.m., May 29, 2024.

Donations may be made to, Worcester Emergency Squad, PO Box 191, Worcester, NY 12197.

Arrangement are entrusted with Heller & Skinner Funeral Home, 155 Main St., Worcester; condolences may be sent to, www.hellerskinnerfh.com