January 12, 2012

WATERTOWN, N.Y.  —  Charles L. Schindler, 87, formerly of Stone Circle, died Wednesday, Jan. 11, at Samaritan Keep Home where he had resided since May 2009.

Born Sept. 17, 1924, in New York City, a son of Charles and Johanna Timm Schindler, he graduated from Sayville High School in the class of 1942 and later that year, in November, he enlisted in the Navy. 

Upon the expiration of his enlistment in 1946, he was honorably discharged as a motor machinist mate first class. 

Charles and his brother, John, established Schindler Bros. Flower Growers, Bohemia, N.Y. Later, he was employed by Al Saffer & Co. until his retirement in 1992.

He married Frances D. Vrana, of East Islip, N.Y., on Oct. 1, 1949, at St. Mark's Episcopal Church, Islip. After residing in Sayville for most of their married life, the couple moved to Watertown in 2003.

Surviving are his wife, Frances D. Schindler, Watertown; a daughter and her husband, Gail C. and Donald S. Butterfield, Watertown; a son and his wife, The Very Reverend Gary C. and Virginia M. Schindler, Springville, N.Y.; a sister, Elizabeth Schwarting, Sayville, N.Y.; five grandchildren, three great-granddaughters, two great-grandsons, nieces, and nephews. 

A brother, John, died before him.

There will be no callings hours or funeral services. 

A graveside service will be held at St. Ann's Cemetery, Sayville, N.Y., at a time to be announced in the spring. 

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Ann's Episcopal Church, 257 Middle Rd., Sayville, NY11782.

Information provided by Cummings Funeral Service and Newzjunky.com, Watertown