WESTFIELD -Charles Joseph O’Rourke, 85, of Westfield died Friday at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Rumford, Maine the son of the late Charles and Alice (Frigault) O’Rourke. Charles was a decorated war veteran of WWII, and Korean and Vietnam wars, attaining the rank of Master Sergeant. During his more than 22 years of service in the US Army and Air Force, he was awarded eight Bronze Service Stars. He was an active member of American Legion Post 124 of Westfield. Charles was later employed at Pratt and Whitney, Digital Corp., and Terry Turbine Co.
He was predeceased by his wife Yolande (Rehak). He is survived by his wife, Laura (DeMar) Rollins O’Rourke, a daughter, Christine Crawford and her husband William of Westfield, a step-daughter, Donna Emerson of Westfield and a sister, Rita Thibodeau of Whitinsville, MA. Charles also leaves his two grandchildren, Chelsey Crawford, and William Crawford. His family is grateful for the compassionate care he received at his home at Armbrook Village. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday from 6-8 p.m.at the Firtion-Adams Funeral Service at 76 Broad St in Westfield. Burial with military honors will be on Wednesday where family and friends are asked to meet at 9 a.m. at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Agawam. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his memory to Alzheimers Association , 480 Pleasant St. Watertown, MA, 02472. firtionadams.com
