Charles “Charlie” A. Boarts of Mullica Hill passed away on Saturday, November 28, at the age of 72.
He was the beloved husband of Joan (White) Boarts, and father to Michelle (Boarts) Ferry (William Ferry) and Allen, who predeceased him. He was the son of Samuel and Bertha Boarts and is survived by sisters Dorothy “Dee” Adams (Sam) and Nancy Lynd (John), as well as by his adored brother Robert “Bob” (Jeanne). His sisters Patricia “Patty” (Robert), and Marjorie “Margie” (Odis “Odie”), as well as his brother Samuel “Sam” (Shona) preceded him in death. He is also survived by numerous nieces, and nephews, to say nothing of the many friends he has left behind.
A graduate of Clayton High School, Charlie then entered into the military, serving abroad in Korea. Upon his return he attended Goldey-Beacom College to obtain a degree in accounting, which was his life’s profession.
He was well-known for working on the family’s Christmas tree farm for many years and enjoyed bartering with his repeat customers year after year. Charlie’s true passion would be trading a tree for “goodies”, be that Tastykakes, cookies, or Mary Lynn’s chocolate cake.
Charlie was well-known for his handy-man skills and willingness to help any and all with their projects. There was never anyone who came to the farm for help with something who was turned away. He would listen to the problem, and then go into his building to find just the right combination of pieces and parts to fix the issue. Sometimes those parts would have been a recent find at a yard-sale, a new hobby for him that he shared with Joan.
Although not a Quaker, he could often be found working in the cemetery of the Mullica Hill Meeting House. Raking leaves, straightening tombstones, and general maintenance were just a few of his “jobs”, as he helped to make it a more beautiful sanctuary for those searching for peace.
His true fix-it passion was old cars and trucks, specifically Fords and Thunderbirds in particular. He and his brother Bob would spend hours at a time out back either hauling home a new “treasure”, or working on an existing one.
Charlie was an avid traveler, especially on river boat cruises throughout Europe with Joan, Michelle, and William. His greatest wish was to visit all 50 States, something he and Joan accomplished in the fall of 2013 with a trip to the Dakotas and Minnesota. While in Minnesota he also was able to watch his beloved Vikings play a football game, his first time watching them live.
Game playing was another hobby of Charlie’s. He enjoyed Friday nights for Rumikub with friends as well as quite a few card games with his family. A vacation wasn’t complete unless the deck of cards and scoring paper were packed.
In keeping with Charlie’s wishes there will be no service and interment was private. Donations in his name may be made to the Mullica Hill Monthly Meeting Cemetery Fund at P.O. Box 67, Mullica Hill, NJ 08062.
Tributes
Leave a tributeKay and walt Pierson
He was quite a man! Your email was heartbreaking....I'm so sorry!
Leave a Tribute
Kay and walt Pierson
When we think of Charlie'we just have to smile.
We knew Joan long before we met Charlie. That made no difference because the first time we met him it was like meeting an old friend. When he found out Steve was having trouble walking Charlie showed up the same day carrying a wheelchair. When our phone stopped working he and Joan made sure we had another one quickly and again there was Charlie at the door telling me it was all charged and ready to be plugged in. He enjoyed sharing stories with Steve of his time in the service and was proud of serving his tour of duty for his country.
I could go on and on with stories of Charlie's many acts of kindness but those that knew him have their own treasured stories of kindness and generosity from Charlie.
Charlie was a devoted husband and father who loved his family above everything but someone who also left numerous friends who will never forget him.
Joan and Michelle we will keep you in our hearts and prayers.
Love,
Barb & Steve