Charles Donald Brownell, 91, of Watertown, New York, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2026, at his home.

Charles was born on March 30, 1935, in Watertown, New York, the son of Wylie and Ava (Alexander) Brownell. He attended Watertown schools and spent his entire career working as a machinist. He began his career at Knowlton Brothers, followed by Black Clawson and New York Air Brake, and spent the majority of his career at Bomax, from which he retired.

On June 1, 1957, Charles married Shirley A. Wilson in Watertown at Trinity Episcopal Church. The couple made their home in Watertown and shared 69 years of marriage. Shirley worked at Mercy Hospital for 30 years before retiring.

Charles enjoyed woodworking, making homemade rockets, and playing computer games. He was very involved in Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts. Charles was an Eagle Scout himself and later served as a Cub Scoutmaster. He took great pride in helping and mentoring young people throughout the years with his wife by his side. He was also a proud member of the Eagles Club in Watertown.

Charles was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His wife, Shirley, was always by his side and lovingly cared for him throughout their life together.

Among his survivors are his beloved wife of 69 years, Shirley Brownell of Watertown; five children, Charlotte “Candy” Grandjean of Watertown, Sandra Amo of Watertown, Glenn (Amy) Brownell of Black River, Edward (Bethany) Brownell of LaFargeville, and Barbara (Leonard) Faibish of Watertown; his brother, Carlton Brownell of Seattle, Washington; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents; his son and daughter in law, Charles and Kim Brownell; his son-in-law, Markjon Amo; his daughter-in-law, Crystal Brownell; his sisters, Lila Skrowski and Gladys Brown; and his brother, Steven Brownell.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, October 21, from 11:00 a.m. until Noon at Hart & Bruce Funeral Home, 117 N. Massey Street, Watertown. A funeral service will immediately follow at Noon at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Brookside Cemetery.

Online condolences may be left at www.hartandbrucefh.com