The Board of Trustees, the Friends of Calpe House, the staff at Calpe House in London and everyone associated with the charity were devastated to hear of the untimely death of Charles Marfe GA on Monday, 4 April 2022. He had been very ill for some time, but the news of his passing was still an emotional hammer blow to all those who were lucky enough to know this truly remarkable, utterly selfless and warm human being.
‘Charlie’ had been a stalwart of the Friends of Calpe House for over 26 years, and a Trustee of the Calpe House Trust for over a decade, in both Honorary Treasurer and broader Trustee roles. His dedication and commitment to each of these organisations, always on a pro bono basis, was simply astonishing, and his vast professional experience gained in the financial sector meant that he added positive value at every juncture. It is no exaggeration to state that without Charlie’s contributions, neither Calpe House or the Friends charities would be where they are today. So it was entirely appropriate that his Herculean efforts were duly recognised in 2019 when he was honored with the prestigious Gibraltar Award.
For those meeting Charlie for the first time, they only had to be in his presence for a minute or two to realise that he was a most special person. His quietly authoritative yet entirely empathetic demeanor shone through brightly, and he seemed to be able to make time for everyone (usually at his own expense). He had a rare knack of making individuals feel good about themselves, and unerringly put the needs of others ahead of his own. He always looked for the good in everything and everybody, was admired from all corners of Gibraltar, and epitomised the definition of a true gentleman.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Charlie’s wife Carmen (always by his side) and his family. We should all take solace in the certain knowledge that a special place was reserved for Charlie in heaven a long, long time ago. RIP Charlie – you will be sorely missed, but never forgotten.
