Charles Wilder Oakes

ST GEORGE - Charles Wilder Oakes, 67, went home to the Lord on September 9, 2023 after a long illness. He passed peacefully at the home of a dear friend, surrounded by caring loved ones, and healing messages from the many whose lives he touched.
Charles was born in Rockland, on August 8, 1956. He was predeceased by his mother, Annie Oakes; his father, Floyd Benjamin Conant; and his brother, Floyd B. Conant.
Raised in Port Clyde, Charles became an artist at an early age, and remained true to his art and vision his whole life. His paintings have been shown in New York City, at the State House in Augusta, Maine, and numerous galleries throughout the Midcoast. His subjects were rendered with an eye for color, for texture, and for the poetic detail natural to one who lived a life connected to the salt tides of the Maine coast. Charlie's art reflected his wild and humorous spirit, his sensitive and giving nature, and his deep love for his hometown of Port Clyde. There is a chapter about Charlie in the book "Salt In Their Veins" by Charlie Wing, and a documentary "Charles Wilder Oakes and The Muses of Port Clyde", filmed in 2012 by Dale Schierholt.
Friends across the globe mourn Charlie's passing. Charles, or "Wilder" as many know him, is remembered for his quick wit, his willingness to share his magic through art, his stories growing up in Port Clyde, and his experiences in Recovery with those who reached out. Charles was also a gifted writer and self-taught carpenter.
He worked on set designs in the film industry and on the water as sternman in lobster boats. Whatever Charles put his hand to had the aura of gifted creativity. Countless friends were comforted and inspired by his posts on social media. Those close to Charlie will always remember his affinity for angels in his artistic and spiritual life.Charlie asked that donations in lieu of flowers be made to the Pope Memorial Humane Society, P.O. Bx 1294, Rockland, Maine 04841. A private burial will take place at a later date.
Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street Rockland.2b:[]
2e:{"t