It is with great sadness that the family of Charles E. (Chuck) Sanborn, Jr., announces his abrupt passing on February 5, 2021.

Chuck's childhood was spent in the Cape Elizabeth school system, graduating in 1979 with an interest in all things automotive.  He also played the drums at band concerts, marched in parades, and developed an interest in NASCAR racing.  At one point, he participated in races at the Beech Ridge Race Track, eventually driving / racing at other tracks in the area.

As a young adult, he enlisted in the USMC for what turned out to be several years before his honorable discharge in 1992, earning the rank of S/Sgt.  As part of this career, he traveled the world "visiting" such far-flung locations as Iceland and Norway, sailing south to Korea, riding a camel in the desert of Saudi Arabia, and peace keeping during the Persian Gulf War.  He made friends with all age groups helping to supply the families with necessities in the process.

As a muscular, physically fit Marine, Chuck sailed the entire Mediterranean Ocean from east to west, performing on deck for his buddies to keep them all amused:  calisthenics, push-ups, Jumping Jacks, etc.  Eventually their ship passed the Rock of Gibraltar and meandered across the Atlantic to greet Lady Liberty in New York Harbor.  After a brief respite they continued south to squeeze by Cuba prior to entering the Panama Canal.

This around the world visit ended in San Diego for a well-earned respite from all of the rigors of international travel!  The ships that provided his means of transportation were named after battles the Marines were involved in during World War II:  the USS Tarawa, the USS Guadalcanal, the USS Iwo Jima, the USS Saipan, plus others.  And then, of course, the US became involved in the Persian Gulf War, which also occupied a great deal of Chuck's time and energy.

After following in his father's footsteps and surpassing his years of military service, Chuck accepted his Honorable Discharge, with medals, commendations, ribbons, etc., before entering the next phase of his life:  He became a stand-up comedian, relating life experiences regarding his military service … and enjoyed every bit of it.

Chuck leaves behind to mourn his passing:  his wife Margaret (Palmer) Sanborn; his son Charles E. Sanborn III; his two daughters and spouses, Danielle Linn (Richard) and Jessica Ryland (John); mother Barbara Sanborn; two sisters and their families, Deborah McDougall (William) and Amy Berry (George); three step-daughters, Jessica, Jennifer and Melissa Palmer; his six grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; one step-great-grandchild; one aunt, three cousins, and other extended family and friends.

Chuck and his off-beat sense of humor will be missed by family, friends, co-workers, and his former Marine buddies who all enjoy occasional lunches together and retelling their own wartime experiences as well …

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Lung Association or the charity of your choice.