Charles Horton III

Saco

Charles Henry Horton III, passed away suddenly on January 31, 2026, in Rangeley, Maine. Born in Burlington, Vermont, on March 21, 1958, he was the son of the late Charles Horton Jr. and the late Elizabeth "Betty" (Black) Horton.

Charlie grew up in the Stroudwater neighborhood of Portland, graduated from Portland High School in 1977, and attended the University of Maine (UMO).

From an early age, his father instilled in him a deep love for the wilderness and a lasting connection to nature. This passion defined much of his life, from childhood weekends spent skiing and hiking to a lifetime of adventures on trails-whether motorized, pedaled or on foot.

A natural tinkerer, Charlie spent countless hours alongside his brother John "Hort" working on their Jeeps, dirt bikes and snowmobiles. Their parents' home was often filled with laughter and friendship, a frequent gathering place for a close-knit group of friends who remain bonded to this day. Charlie was known for his "I can fix this" spirit, his gentle demeanor and quiet confidence. There is no shortage of stories from their many adventures, both mishaps and triumphs.

He carried this problem-solving nature and strong work ethic into his professional life, beginning his career operating heavy equipment for White Brothers. Charlie later dedicated several years as a stay-at-home dad caring for his sons before returning to the workforce as a lab technician for Hydro International. He retired in 2024.

On September 14, 1991, Charlie married Peggy Poulin. Together, they built a life rooted in family, love and adventures. He is survived by his wife, Peg; his sons, Charles IV and wife Kala, Wesley and partner Haylee Williams; his beloved grandchildren, Charles V (Crue) and Quinn; and brother, John. He was predeceased by his father, Charles (1996), and his mother, Betty (September 2025).

Charlie will be deeply missed as a devoted husband, father, brother and "Bobo". His love for his family and friends was immense, and though he is no longer with us, his spirit lives on-- in the woods he loved, the trails he traveled, and the family and friends who will carry his memory forward.

Visiting Hours will be held from 1PM-3PM on Saturday, February 21st, 2026, with a Celebration of Life to follow at 3PM at Cote Funeral Home Chapel, Saco.

To view Charlie's memorial page please visit www.cotefuneralhome.com.