B. Steen Obituary (1932 - 2009)

WINTHROP - B. Charles Steen, 76, of Winthrop passed away peacefully on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 26, 2009, at home with family by his side. He was born in Weehawken, N.J., on Dec. 1, 1932, son of Charles and Hulda Steen. Charles graduated from Worden School of Social Work in San Antonio, with a master's degree in social work. He earned his undergraduate degree from Kansas State University. Charles first worked for the state of Maine in the Human Services Department and later as a psychiatric social worker until his retirement in 2000. Charles served in the Army during the Korean conflict as well as the National Guard until his honorable discharge. He also worked in the insurance field for several years. He was known in the tennis community as Chuck and was always eager to play. 'Opa' had an easygoing, affable affect, especially when playing family-style tennis with all of his grandchildren. Charlie's passions, besides family and tennis, were reading, gardening, playing chess with his grandchildren, biking and hiking. He enjoyed travel abroad to various resorts and Elderhostels. He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Ruth Steen, of Winthrop; his son, Mark, daughter-in-law Kathy, and grandchildren Jack and Erin Steen, of Centreville, Va.; and daughter Susan, son-in-law Scott, and grandchildren Maxwell and Evan Thomas, of Winterport. The remembrance and celebration of Charlie's life will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to HealthReach Hospice or Harold Alfond Center for Cancer Care; www.mainegeneral.org/ Condolences may be expressed at www.khrfuneralhomes.com Arrangements are in the care of Roberts Funeral Home, 62 Bowdoin St., Winthrop.