Charles W. Coss, born October 17, 1927 in Hagerstown, Md, died peacefully on Wednesday, June 17. The eldest son of Charles and Virginia Coss, Charlie is survived by his daughter Susan Coss, grandson Isaiah Coss, and his former wife of 39 years Mary Lou Springer. Charlie grew up on the Eastern Shore of Maryland on the farm his father managed. The Depression had a deep and long lasting impact on Charlie and he became a longtime Franklin D. Roosevelt democrat. After graduating from Chestertown High School in 1945, he joined the army and served under James M. Cain, part of the historical team documenting the Pacific Theater. After leaving the military, he attended Washington College on the GI Bill and, following graduation, returned to Hagerstown, Md. He became involved in local politics and ran for office, becoming a member of the Maryland House of Delegates from 1959-1962, and served on the Maryland campaign committee for John F. Kennedy Jr. Inspired by the energy and words of Kennedy, Charlie began a career in the federal government in 1962 that would span almost 30 years. From the Area Redevelopment Administration to the Coastal Plains Commission to the Public Works Administration, Charlie's work focused on economic development in some of the most challenged areas in the United States. He worked tirelessly to improve the lives of others through his public service by helping bring economic opportunities to their communities. Upon retirement in the late 1980s, Charlie worked for the city of Frederick, Md on economic development issues, primarily the Carroll Creek project. He then fully retired from government work and returned to his agricultural roots and began organic farming on a couple of small acres of land outside of Boonsboro, Md, selling the fruits of his labor at the Rockville Farmers Market until 2001. He spent his remaining years traveling and staying attentive to government, economics and politics. Charlie was preceded in death by his daughter Megan Coss in 2012. A memorial service celebrating Charlie's life will be held at a future date. Donations may be made in his name to the Bernie Sanders presidential campaign (www.berniesanders.com) or to the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (www.nhpco.org).