Charles (Charlie) Reginald Riordan Jr., 79, of Holliston, passed away at his home on Sunday, July 27, 2025. Charlie was born on June 12, 1946, in Willimantic, Connecticut, son of the late Charles R. and Virginia (Bowen) Riordan. He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 32 years, Cynthia, who passed in November 2023.

Charlie was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, attaining the rank of Private First Class while serving during the Vietnam War before being honorably discharged in 1965. Following his service, he began a lengthy career in a range of industries, most recently working as a buyer for the LEWA company in Holliston, where he formed many lasting friendships.

Charlie was endowed with a sharp wit, a green thumb that tended to his treasured lawn and garden, and a craftsman’s hand that could fashion ingenious solutions to any of life’s problems. He was an animal lover who adored the many pets he and his wife had over the years, and kept several feeders well-stocked in the backyard to ensure the local birds would never go hungry. He was a sports fan who followed all of the local teams, and the Patriots most fervently.

Charlie is survived by his brother, William, of Mansfield, and by his stepson, Andrew Merritt, and his wife, Elise, of Quincy. He also leaves behind beloved members of his wife’s family, with whom he spent many holidays and family gatherings. He is remembered by a cherished group of friends and neighbors with whom he shared much of his time, especially after his wife’s passing, including James Turner of Holliston; Jen and Brian McManus of Holliston and their sons, Justin and Ryan; and Pat Burke of Holliston.

Although his home in Holliston was his most cherished place, he also enjoyed vacations along the coast of Maine, especially in the small village of Round Pond, where he spent many wonderful summers with long-time friend, Peter Dodge, among others. Prior to meeting Cynthia, he lived the high life with good friends, including Stephen “Tunes” Bradford of Holliston, Tom “T-Mac” McKinney of Half Moon Bay, Calif., Kevin Casey of Leominster, and Thomas “Howie” Harwood of Sagamore Beach.

A public celebration of life will take place on Saturday, August 23, from 12-2 p.m., at Chesmore Funeral Home of Holliston, 854 Washington Street. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, dana-farber.org, and Ashland Animal Hospital, 10 Fountain St, Ashland, MA 01721.