WILMINGTON, MA — Percival H. Cornish Jr., better known as “Chuck” to his family and friends, a life-long resident of Wilmington, died unexpectedly at the Winchester Hospital on March 10, 2017. He was 82 years old.
Chuck was born on January 17, 1935; he was the dear son of the late Percival H. and Dora (Rice) Cornish. Chuck was raised and educated in Wilmington and was a graduate of Wilmington High School.
Chuck was inducted into the United States Army on December 12, 1957; during the Vietnam War. He served overseas with the 379th Trans. Company and received the Good Conduct Medal as well as Letter of Appreciation for his service. Chuck was honorably discharged from active duty on November 19, 1959 and transferred to the Army Reserves where he served until December of 1963.
Chuck was a hard worker; for over 38 years he was employed with the Town of Wilmington in the Tree Department. Chuck was very conscientious and dependable when it came to his job and he got along very well with his co-workers; they made a great team.
In his spare time, Chuck could be found at the local sub shop in North Wilmington hanging out with “the guys”; he was always there first and made sure there was a fresh pot of coffee. Chuck could also be found about town driving his famous truck; he was just checking things out making sure the town was quiet.
Chuck was a very talented craftsman and for many years he did wood working and created some beautiful pieces that will be treasured. Chuck was also known to have a green thumb and was quite a gardener growing his many vegetables and tending to his yard; his gardens were always beautiful.
Chuck will be fondly known as a devoted family man and a true friend. He had a quiet nature but would go out of his way to help anyone in need. Chuck will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Chuck was the beloved husband of Margaret (Grassia) Cornish “Marge”, devoted father of Joseph Cornish and Michelle Cornish both of Chester, NH and the late Eric Cornish. Loving “Papa” of Cori & Ashley Michals and Jocelyn & Joseph Cornish. Dear son of the late Percival H. and Dora (Rice) Cornish, brother of Richard Cornish & wife Cathy of Wells, ME, Robert Cornish & wife Celia of Wilmington and the late Nancy Sullivan. Chuck is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Family and friends gathered at the Nichols Funeral Home, 187 Middlesex Ave. (Rte. 62), Wilmington on Monday, March 13th for Visitation from 4:00-7:00 p.m. immediately followed by a Service with Military Honors at 7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers donations in Chuck’s memory may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105. http://www.nicholsfuneralhome.com
(NOTE: The above obituary is from Nichols Funeral Home.)
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