Vietnam Veteran Charles F. Enes Dies at 78

Longtime Maine resident and skilled craftsman remembered for his service, humor, and quiet strength.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

Charles F. Enes, a Vietnam War veteran and longtime Maine resident, passed away peacefully at the age of 78 at the Maine Veterans' Home in Scarborough. Enes served in the U.S. Navy as a communications technician and was awarded the Meritorious Unit Commendation for his dedicated service. After his military service, he worked as a draftsman, mason, and carpenter, and was admired for his craftsmanship and quiet pride in his work.

Why it matters

Enes' life story reflects the experiences of many American veterans who served during the Vietnam War era and later found fulfillment in skilled trades and community life. His passing is a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who answered the call to serve their country, and the importance of honoring their legacies.

The details

Enes was born in South Windsor, Connecticut in 1947 and enlisted in the Navy in 1965, serving in Guam and aboard submarines during the Vietnam War. After his discharge in 1969, he married Sylvia Fitzgerald and they made their home in Manchester, Connecticut. Following Sylvia's death, Enes moved to Arizona and eventually settled in Boothbay Harbor, Maine, where he worked as a draftsman, mason, and carpenter. In 2023, he became a resident of the Maine Veterans' Home in Scarborough, where he was cared for with dignity and kindness until his passing.

  • Charles F. Enes was born on August 24, 1947 in South Windsor, Connecticut.
  • Enes enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1965 and served during the Vietnam War, being discharged in 1969.
  • Enes married Sylvia Fitzgerald in January 1970.
  • Enes moved to the Maine Veterans' Home in Scarborough in 2023.
  • Enes passed away on February 3, 2026 at the age of 78.

The players

Charles F. Enes

A Vietnam War veteran who worked as a draftsman, mason, and carpenter, and was a longtime resident of Maine.

Sylvia Fitzgerald

Enes' wife, whom he married in 1970 and who passed away before him.

James Enes

Enes' son, who lives in Connecticut with his wife Rebekah and their two sons Sam and Max.

Megan Olivo

Enes' daughter, who lives in Brunswick, Maine and Keene, New Hampshire with her husband Seth.

Trish Enes Brunet

Enes' sister, who lives in Scarborough, Maine and Beaconsfield, Quebec, Canada with her husband Pierre.

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What’s next

Enes will be buried in the spring, and the family has requested that donations be made to the Maine Veterans' Home in Scarborough in his memory.

The takeaway

Charles F. Enes' life story is a testament to the resilience and quiet strength of many American veterans who served their country, found fulfillment in skilled trades, and built meaningful lives in their local communities. His passing is a reminder of the importance of honoring the legacies of those who have served.