Charles Sumner Foss

March 7, 1943 ~ October 14, 2025
Charles Sumner Foss died on October 14, 2025 at the age of 82 after a long period of declining health. He was born on March 7, 1943 in Portland Maine and spent most of his life in the Portland area. He was predeceased by his parents Richard Fletcher Foss and Suzanne Thompson Foss, and his sister, Macy Foss Avery. He is survived by his brother, Peter Thompson Foss of Yarmouth, Maine, and his partner of 17 years, Holly Brooks of Portland, Maine, as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.
Charlie attended Portland schools, including Deering High, and graduated from Hebron Academy. He continued on to Colby College. Most of his working years were spent in IT security related work for L.L.Bean and Maine National Bank. He also worked as an interior painter and wall paperer and loved to repair antiques, especially furniture. Throughout his life, he had a continuing interest in helping the family business, Schlotterbeck and Foss. He also worked at X cafe where he was head of food science and product formulation.
Charlie was a sensitive soul, always reaching out to those in need and a kind friend to many. He loved his cats, greyhounds, and photography. He was an appreciator of the arts and nature. He had a quirky endearing sense of humor, and always a smile on his face when people would encounter him.
Towards the end of his life, he battled with Alzheimers and heart disease. He will be missed dearly.
A Celebration of Life will be held from 2:00pm to 4:00pm on Saturday, November 1st at the Conroy-Tully Walker Funeral Home of Portland, 300 Allen Ave.
Services
Celebration of Life: Saturday, November 1, 2025 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Conroy-Tully Walker Cremation, Funeral & Gathering Center
300 Allen Avenue
Portland, Maine 04103
I worked as a consultant at L L Bean and knew Charlie a little bit. I admired him for all his work keeping Schlotterbeck and Foss up and running. He was one of those people that you wish you had known better: always cheerful and a great sense of humor. I am sure that his family have many fond memories to get them through this difficult time. The world will be a little dimmer without him.
I knew Charlie through Holly. It had been sad to see him declining. The Charlie I will remember is a tall, handsome man with an easy smile, and a gentle presence that exuded warmth. He was funny, thoughtful, and open to fun and silliness.
Charlie was lucky to have Holly in his life (and she was lucky to have him!). As his health declined, she was so diligent and committed to making sure he had everything he needed in every way.
He will be missed.
Our sympathy Helen & Jeff Runnels…
Our thought and prayers are with all those feel the deep loss of your passing.
Bruce and Barb Warren