Retired US Navy Commander Charles W. Clark, 71, died peacefully in his sleep Saturday, September 20. He was the co-owner, with his wife Laurie, of Compass Rose Antiques in Stratham, N.H.

Charlie, as he was referred to in the Navy, was born in Portsmouth on April 22, 1937. He graduated from Portsmouth High School in 1955 and Maine Maritime Academy in 1958. He retired after 25 years of service.

Combining long family local connections and a mother in the antique business with his early retirement from the Navy, Charlie, with Laurie, launched Compass Rose Antiques in 1981. With a keen eye, they specialized in early lighting and a wide variety of antiques from seacoast homes. The couple’s business carried them to shows throughout New England, including the New Hampshire Antiques Show from 1993 to 2007.

Charlie was a generous, loving and wonderful husband and father. He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Laurie; his son Ian of Concord; his daughter Tanner of Exeter; and his mother, Albina Clark of New Castle. He was predeceased by his father, Charles W. Clark Sr.

A longtime member of The New Hampshire Antique Dealers Association, Charlie was a past commodore of the Portsmouth Yacht Club and a member since 1981; he most enjoyed time with his family, a passion for his search of antiques, his Labradors, the Yankees, yard work, a stiff martini and being the best dressed man in the room. He will be truly missed by all who knew him.

Memorial contributions can be made to the New Hampshire SPCA of Stratham, PO Box 196, Stratham NH 03885, www.nhspca.org .