News Summary
Clive R. Charest, a beloved veteran and family man, passed away surrounded by his family, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and dedication. He served in the Vietnam War and spent 40 years as an EEG Technician, making a significant impact on those around him. Clive is remembered as a devoted father and grandfather, an avid golfer, and a supporter of New England sports. His funeral service will honor his memory and contributions to the community.
Providence, Rhode Island – A Tribute to Clive R. Charest
It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Clive R. Charest, a cherished veteran and beloved family man, who left this world on October 16, 2025, at the age of 77. Clive passed away at Rhode Island Hospital in Providence, surrounded by his loving family, which was a fitting farewell for a man who dedicated his life to his loved ones.
A Lifelong Legacy of Love and Service
Born in Attleboro, Massachusetts, Clive was raised by his parents, the late Ralph R. and Maureen (McKenzie) Charest. He grew up in the neighboring town of Seekonk, Massachusetts, before graduating from East Providence High School. After high school, he took a brave step and enlisted in the United States Army, where he served as a Combat Medic during the challenging times of the Vietnam War. Clive’s commitment and bravery didn’t go unnoticed; he was awarded numerous commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, and the prestigious Combat Medical Badge.
After honorably serving his country, Clive dedicated 40 years of his life to helping others as an EEG Technician at Kent Hospital, retiring only in 2009. Following his retirement, he decided to soak up the sun in Flagler Beach, Florida, where he continued to spread joy and laughter during his golden years.
The Family Man
Clive was the loving husband of the late Gail L. Brodeur, who passed away in 2016. Together, they shared a life filled with love, laughter, and countless memories. Clive was a devoted father to his daughters, Kristen Benoit and Danielle Iacobucci (married to Derek). He also found immense joy in being a grandfather to six beautiful grandchildren: Julia, Kamryn, Carly, Gia, Lilly, and Jack.
In addition to his immediate family, Clive is survived by his brother Terrance Charest, his sister Victoria Moren, stepson Erik Crepeau (married to Emma), and former son-in-law Michael Benoit. He was not just a father and brother; he was a loving uncle and a cherished companion to Debbie Hamilton, who will dearly miss his great sense of humor and warm smile.
A Life Passionately Lived
As a golf enthusiast, Clive spent many afternoons playing on the greens and showed his unwavering support for New England sports teams, with a special fondness for the Providence Friars basketball team. He and Gail enjoyed traveling and exploring new places, creating unforgettable experiences over the years.
Remembering Clive
The family has planned visiting hours for Clive on October 23, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Iannotti Funeral Home in Coventry. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 AM, followed by military honors and inurnment at the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Exeter, where Clive will be laid to rest with respect and dignity.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Vietnam Veterans of America, honoring Clive’s service and dedication to his country. His legacy will live on not just in the memories of those who loved him, but also in the contributions he made to his community and beyond.
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Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Demetrio Ramos
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Providence Journal: Obituary
- Google Search: Obituary Providence Rhode Island
- KREM: Nurses Fired in Providence
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Vietnam War
- Legacy: Dennis Barclay
- Google News: Providence Rhode Island news
- Providence Journal: Another Obituary
- Google Scholar: Providence Rhode Island
- Dignity Memorial: David Mullen
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
