Charles William "Charlie" Bernroth, 84, of Hampton Bays and Port Washington, NY, passed away peacefully on July 21st. Born on February 27, 1942, in New York City, Charlie lived a life defined by determination, kindness, faith, and an extraordinary ability to make everyone he met feel like an old friend.

From a young age, Charlie understood the value of hard work and determination. Growing up in Brooklyn, he delivered newspapers, learning lessons of responsibility and perseverance that would guide him throughout his life. Those same qualities carried him through Brooklyn Tech High School and Albright College, where he earned his bachelor's degree. Later, beginning humbly in the mailroom, Charlie steadily climbed the ranks through dedication and hard work until he became the manager of the New York City office of AllAmerica Insurance—a testament to his determination.

Outside of work, Charlie embraced life with enthusiasm. He was a member of the Bellrose Dirt Bike Club, and an avid skier and sailor. He proudly remained a member of the Sperry Ski Club for more than forty years and served as the President for Skidaddler's as well. “Sperry” wasn't simply a favorite destination—it was a second family, filled with cherished friendships and countless memories made on the slopes, apres-ski, and evening heated “Rummicube” matches.

Within Charlie’s Hampton Bays Community, he enjoyed traveling, Friday nightHappy Hours, the Hampton Bays Beautification Association, the Irish-American Society, and all of the social events for the community.

To know Charlie was to know his smile. It was the kind of smile that could put people instantly at ease and dissolve almost any tension. His charisma was remarkable. He could strike up a conversation with a complete stranger, and within minutes it seemed they'd known each other for years.

Friends and family often joked that he carried one unusual talent with him wherever he traveled… Affectionately nicknamed "Charlie Raincloud," it seemed that whenever Charlie arrived for a family vacation or ski trip, the rain or snow wasn't far behind. It became one of those stories that was retold with laughter every time everyone gathered together.

In recent years, Charlie faced physical challenges that would have stopped many people, but not him. His determination never wavered. No matter how slow he had to move, he continued making cross-country trips and faithfully attended church every Sunday. His resilience quietly inspired everyone who knew him.

Charlie was the eldest son of William and Helen Bernroth, a brother to Kenneth Bernroth (deceased), a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Julie; a loving father to his daughters, Anne and Christine; and a proud grandfather to Charlie Jr., who brought him immeasurable joy and rejuvenation. He is also survived by his cousins. Though his immediate family was small, the number of lives he touched through friendship, kindness, and genuine compassion was immeasurable.

His Methodist faith was a cornerstone in his life. It shaped the way he treated others—with grace, generosity, and a welcoming spirit. Charlie believed in showing kindness to everyone, and his life was a reflection of that belief. His legacy is not found only in the positions he held or the many places he visited, but in the countless smiles he created, the friendships he built, and the example he set of meeting life's challenges with faith, optimism, and perseverance.

Charlie will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His family finds comfort in knowing that while his earthly journey has ended, the warmth of his smile, the strength of his spirit, and the love he shared will continue to live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Hampton Bays United Methodist Church, 158 West Montauk Highway, Hampton Bays, NY 11946, in honor of Charlie's lifelong faith and generous spirit.