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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
MUSGROVE, Charles David (Charlie) - With heavy hearts, we share that Charles “Charlie” David Musgrove passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at the age of 92.
Charlie's memory will be cherished by his five children: Joan (Russell), Carol (Terry), Jill, Richard (Pam), and Krista (Terry). He also leaves behind eight grandchildren, several great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members. He is survived by his sister, Anne, who fondly called him "Corky." He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Maxine, and his parents, David and Gladys.
Born on May 21, 1934, in British Columbia, Charlie enlisted in the Royal Canadian Navy in 1953. It was also the year he met Maxine Trethewey, who would become his wife and lifelong companion. They married on April 17, 1954, and shared nearly 71 years of marriage before her death in January 2025.
Inspired by his love of the sea, Charles served aboard numerous vessels in the Canadian naval fleet, including HMCS Athabaskan, HMCS Labrador, HMCS Sioux, HMCS Assiniboine, and HMCS Ottawa.
During a 1957 deployment aboard the Arctic patrol icebreaker HMCS Labrador, Charles helped navigate and chart the rugged, previously unmapped underwater terrain of the Bellot Strait.
Five years later, aboard HMCS Sioux, he saved a shipmate who had been swept into heavy seas off the coast of Bermuda. For his prompt action and initiative, he was awarded a Chief of the Naval Staff Commendation. By that time, he was serving as a Fire Control Man while also carrying out duties as a Clearance Diver (Ships).
In recognition of more than 180 days of service during Cold War deployments, Charles was awarded the NATO Medal and the Canadian Centennial Medal. He was also awarded the Canadian Forces Decoration (CD) with two bars for 32 years of dedicated service. He retired from the Royal Canadian Navy in 1985 with the rank of Chief Petty Officer Second Class.
In keeping with his lifelong bond with the ocean, Charlie will be laid to rest at sea. The Royal Canadian Navy will conduct a formal burial at sea in honour of his years of service and his final voyage.
Charlie's kindness, strength, and unwavering devotion to his family left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
Ships served in:
Crowsnest magazine Sep 1957 pg 8
Crowsnest magazine Oct 1962, pg 2
Crowsnest magazine Oct 1962, pg 20
Crowsnest magazine Dec 1962, pg 21
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