Charles “ Chucky” Bernard McGuire, 76, of Montrose, New York, passed away on October 8, 2025 peacefully surrounded by his family in Montrose, NY. A celebration of life will be held at The Montrose Fire Department on November 8, 2025 located at 2143 Albany Post Road, Montrose, NY 10548 from 12:00pm-8:00pm.
Charles was born in Peekskill, NY to Marion & William McGuire on June 9, 1949. He graduated from Hendrick Hudson High School, achieving honor roll in the studies of heating and ventilation. These skills helped him to obtain a job with the United Engineers at Indian Point where he worked until he went to Vietnam. Charles proudly served in the Vietnam War from 1969-1972 where he was honorably discharged. While serving in Vietnam in the 36th Engineering Construction Battalion he achieved the rank of SP5. During his tour he received the decorations and medals of - Vietnam Service Medal Sharpshooter M-16, 2 Overseas Bars, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and National Defense Service Medal.
One of greatest legacies that Charles leaves behind is his spirit of service and dedication to The Cortlandt Engine Company and The Montrose Fire Department. Charles proudly and selflessly served as a volunteer for 54 years. Working tirelessly to ensure that the community he lived in was safe and protected. Charles received accolades of Firefighter of the Year on several occasions as well as awards for most calls attended to. While a member, Charles served on the Board Of Governors, and he was also actively a trainer and mentor to the new members as they came in. Those of us who knew him best, we knew his true love was Engine 122. The care put into that engine was like caring for one of his children. You could pass by the department any given Sunday morning and see him cleaning her and making sure she was ready to go at a moments notice.
Charles married his High School sweetheart Gale ( Altman) McGuire upon his return from Vietnam where they raised their family in Buchanan for over 20 years. He is survived by his three children Tana McGuire, Meranda McGuire and Shaun McGuire, Grandson Nicholas Turner, Granddaughter Olivia O’Toole, Brothers William McGuire, John McGuire, David Gordon ( Debby), sisters Jane Maxwell ( Randy) Darlene Carbone ( Stephen) and many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins. He also leaves behind many lasting friendships from the Cortlandt Engine Company including but not limited to John, Hank, Matteo and Jimmy, his hunting buddies Ralph, Bill and Lou and many friends he met along the way of the incredible life he lead.
We would also like to acknowledge the members of the community who rallied with my father in his last days ensuring that he knew how much he was loved and the impact he had on each and every life of the person who was in front of him visiting in his last days.
Under the care of John G. Crawford Memorial Services, LLC