Charles Robert Diem, 84, of Coupeville, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 2 while surrounded by family. He was born in Oil City, Pa., on Nov. 20, 1932 to Carl and Gertrude Diem.

Charles had a lifelong passion for the Boy Scouts of America. Through hard work and determination, he earned his Eagle Scout in 1947 at the young age of 15.

Some of his fondest teenage memories were of working summers as a ranch hand at Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico. He was very proud that he was invited to and attended the sixth Scout World Jamboree in Paris, France, in 1947. His passion for scouting extended into his family life, and there are many fond family memories of backpacking and camping.

While at dental school in Pittsburgh, Pa., Charles’ sister introduced him to a beautiful nursing student named Sara “Sally” Cavanaugh. They were soon married and went on to have eight children. Charles received his dental degree from the University of Pittsburgh in 1957 and soon joined the Navy as a dental officer.

While proudly serving his country, Charles had the opportunity to be stationed at bases throughout the country and abroad. He retired as a captain after serving his country for 28 years.

After retiring from the Navy, Charles opened up a private practice as a prominent periodontist in Oak Harbor, where he practiced for 30 years. Much of his practice was spent providing dental health care to the underserved.

In the early 1980s, Charles began to study the art of pottery. He went on to become a very accomplished and creative potter. He was often described as a “gentle soul” when he was working in his studio, shaping clay. Many have fond memories of sharing creative moments with “Papa” in his studio. What he leaves behind in clay will always be treasured.

When we think of Charles, we will always remember his avid love of reading, his thirst for knowledge, his looking up information on his iPad and his conversations regarding his thoughts and opinions. He also loved working in his garden and seeing life spring from seeds. Charles had a very tender heart towards animals, especially dogs.

Charles is survived by his children David Diem and his wife Susan; Mary Szymanski and her husband Michael; Michael Diem; Cathie Diem and her husband Steve; Nancy Diem; Shawn Diem and her husband David; and Robert Diem and his wife Karyn.

He is also survived by his brother Carl “Butch” Diem, his sister Mary Anne Molaskey, as well as 16 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He also has many beloved nieces and nephews.

Charles was preceded in death by his wife Sally Diem, his son Jonathan Diem, his grandson Mark Charles Szymanski, his sister Gretchen Wycoff and his brother Daniel Diem.

There will be celebration of Charles’ life Saturday, April 22 at Burley Funeral Chapel at 30 SE Ely St., Oak Harbor, WA. A viewing is scheduled from 9-11 a.m., immediately followed by a memorial service. We will then proceed to Sunnyside Cemetery in Coupeville for an honor guard ceremony and burial.

In honor of his deceased grandson, Mark Charles Szymanski, and in lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Charles’ name to the Nepal village he supported. Please send your kind donations to 19256 N. Ella Road. Rathdrum, ID, 83858. Make checks payable to RIDS-USA.