Charles Lawrence Schiller

Charles Lawrence (Larry) Schiller, 94, of Willimantic, CT passed from mortal sight on January 23, 2021. Born May 24, 1926, he was the youngest child of Jacob and Yetta Schiller. His formative years were spent on the family’s farm in Franklin, where Larry had regular chores helping his father and three older siblings. His early education was in the one-room school on Franklin Hill to which (as he would relate) he would walk uphill, both ways, every day. Matriculating at Norwich Free Academy, he graduated in 1944 and immediately enlisted in the U. S. Navy, serving in the Naval Air Corp. Upon discharge he travelled to New York City where he wooed and wed his wife, Estelle Saltzman, with whom he enjoyed 65 years of marriage until she passed in 2013. Together they raised three boys, Howard, Douglas and Richard.

In 1951 Larry and Estelle relocated to Willimantic. Larry established a retail business, Schiller’s Sewing Circle, in which he sold and repaired sewing machines and vacuum cleaners. With his constant smile and good cheer, Larry served the residents of eastern Connecticut for decades. The business which bears the family name continues as the oldest family-run business in Windham.

Larry was active in politics and a strong Republican. He served multiple terms as a selectman in Willimantic and Windham. The local party chairman for many years, he was twice the Republican standard bearer as a candidate for state representative as well as active in state-wide party activities.

Larry’s volunteer involvement included serving as a scout leader and president of Temple Bnai Israel in Willimantic. Larry was Master of Uriel Lodge #24, A. F. & A. M. in Merrow. His Masonic career spanned over 50 years including service as a District Deputy. He was a recipient of the Pierpont Edwards medal for distinguished Masonic and community service.

Surviving to celebrate Larry’s life are sons Howard (Bonnie), Douglas (Dvara) and Richard (Amy), six grandchildren, Joshua, Matthew, Elizabeth, Rachel, Lowell and Rebecca as well as 10 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his siblings Frank, Ida and Julius. Memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association, the Connecticut Freemason Foundation or a charity of the donor’s choice.

The family thanks Davidverette Mboob for the warm and loving care she provided Larry.  Her kindness will not be forgotten.

He will be interred with Estelle in Temple B’nai Israel Cemetery in Mansfield on Wednesday, January 27, 2021 at 11:00 AM with a brief Graveside Service consistent with Covid–19 restrictions. All are invited to virtually attend via his memorial page. May his memory be a blessing to all. 

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