Charles Thompson Nye
HIGHGATE CENTER: It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Charles Thompson Nye, a devoted husband, beloved father, and esteemed member of the Highgate community. Surrounded by his loving family, Charles left this world on February 12, 2024, after a life well-lived and filled with cherished memories.
Charles was born on June 18, 1931, in his beloved hometown of Highgate, Vermont. From a young age, he showcased a remarkable work ethic and a genuine passion for his community. He attended Highgate High School, graduating with pride in 1949, before continuing his education at Vermont Technical College where he acquired invaluable knowledge that would shape his future endeavors.
Professionally, Charles found fulfillment as a dedicated machine operator, spending 26 years of his career at General Electric. He also worked for several years in the dairy industry throughout Vermont.
Beyond his professional achievements, Charles’s true legacy lies in his selfless service to the Highgate community. Known as the handyman of the neighborhood, he was always there to lend a helping hand, fixing whatever needed repair and brightening the lives of those around him. In recognition of his exceptional contributions, the Highgate town report was dedicated to him in 2008, a testament to his remarkable impact.
Charles’s passion for local history led him to volunteer for many years at the Highgate Historical Society, where he shared his wealth of knowledge and significantly contributed to preserving the town’s heritage. Additionally, Charles served as a dedicated cemetery commissioner. His remarkable dedication and selfless service were widely recognized and celebrated. In 2016, Charles proudly received the Vermont Public Service Award. The League of Historical Societies and Museums also honored him with the Individual Achievement Award in 2020. Moreover, Charles was recognized as a WCAX Super Senior, embodying the spirit of resilience, wisdom, and grace in his golden years.
Charles leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. He is survived by his beloved wife, Louise Nye of Highgate Center; their children, Ronald Nye and his fiancé Lise Coutts, Deborah Bourdeau and her husband Laurent, Douglas Nye and his wife Cynthia, Catherine Danyow and her husband Brian, James Nye and his partner Deborah Franzke, Jane Menard and her husband Daniel, and Robert Nye and his wife Susan; son-in-law, Danny Danyow; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, Joseph LeBlanc; and many nieces & nephews.
In addition to his parents, Charlie was predeceased by his daughter, Sally Danyow; his sister, Sylvia Ploof and her husband Robert; and 16 siblings-in-law and their spouses.
Friends and family are invited to Charlie’s life celebration to include visitation on Thursday, February 15, 2024, from 4 – 7:00 pm at the Goss Life Celebration Home, 89 Grand Avenue, Swanton, VT. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, February 16, 2024, at 10 am at St. Louis Catholic Church, Lamkin St., Highgate Center, VT. Interment will follow in St. Louis Cemetery in Highgate.
For those who wish, contributions in Charlie’s memory may be made to the Highgate Historical Society, 3181 VT Rte. 78, Highgate Center, VT 05459, or St. Louis Catholic Church, 65 Canada Street, Swanton, VT 05488.
Condolences, photos, and favorite memories may be shared through www.gossfs.com
