Charles Carlstrom

Charles Francis Carlstrom, born Dec. 29, 1942, passed away peacefully at home on Sept. 25, 2026, at the age of 83. Charles was born to his birth parents, Florence Johnson Dalrymple and James Dalrymple. As a baby, he was lovingly adopted by Ella Pingree Carlstrom and Ezra Carlstrom, who raised him in Hopkinton, just down the street from his sister, brother and many cousins.

Charles grew up in Hopkinton and remained there until his early retirement from teaching in 1994. He graduated from Hopkinton High School in 1960 and went on to attend the Boston Conservatory, graduating in 1964. There, he studied piano and earned his teaching degree. Teaching was an important part of Charles’s life and a true calling. He began his teaching career in Leicester, where he taught elementary school for one year, before spending the next 21 years teaching in Worcester. Charles was a beloved teacher and received many commendations throughout his career in recognition of his dedication and service to his students. Charles was an accomplished pianist, and he organized recitals at his home as well as numerous school programs and musicals throughout his teaching career.

In 1995, Charles moved to Dennis on Cape Cod, where he made many wonderful friends and enjoyed retired life. Charles had a generous spirit and spent much of his time looking after and caring for others. He enjoyed playing the piano, doting on his beloved dog, Josie, collecting and studying oriental rugs and spending time with family and friends.

Charles was one of three siblings. He is survived by his brother, James Roy Dalrymple of Westerville, Ohio. His sister, Hazel Dalrymple Wheeler of Danvers, predeceased him. Charles was deeply loved by his many nieces and nephews: Lynne Wheeler Swanson of Gloucester; Bruce Wheeler and Mark Wheeler of Wenham; Scott Wheeler of Portsmouth, Rhode Island; Kate Mantenieks-Weber and Lindsey Dalrymple Webster of Westerville, Ohio; and Jeff Dalrymple of Acworth, Georgia.

Charles will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, love of music, devotion to his students and the care he gave so freely to others. He created lasting friendships throughout his life and touched many people in ways that will not be forgotten. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, former students and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

There will be a brief graveside service at Evergreen in Hopkinton on Friday, Oct. 2, at 1 p.m. Arrangements are under the care of the Chesmore Funeral Home of Hopkinton.

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