Charles Elpidio Mudra, lovingly known as Charlie, passed away on May 16, 2025, in Baltimore, Maryland, at the age of 52.

Born on November 3, 1972, in New Hyde Park, New York, Charlie was raised by his mother and grandmother. He cared for his dearly cherished mother, Mildred, until her passing. Charlie attended St. Hedwig’s School through eighth grade and graduated from Sewanhaka High School in 1990. He played varsity football, number 66, in his senior year.

Charlie’s father, Charles F. Mudra, passed away when Charlie was an infant. His mother never remarried, and Charlie remained an only child. At the time of his death, he had no living biological relatives, yet his life was rich in love and connection. For a little over three years, Charlie shared a deep, unwavering bond with his beloved partner, Elizabeth. From the beginning, they were inseparable. He embraced Elizabeth’s children, Casper and James, as his own, with all the joy, frustration, and fierce love that comes with raising teenagers.

From childhood, Charlie dreamed of becoming a firefighter. He joined the New Hyde Park Volunteer Fire Company shortly after high school. He served proudly on Rescue 174 and Ladder 175 and earned his EMT certification in 1996. In 1998, he joined the New York City Fire Department as an EMT, where he served for a decade, promoting to EMS Lieutenant. In 2008, Charlie continued his career in service with the Baltimore City Fire Department, promoting to emergency vehicle driver and faithfully serving for 17 years until his death on the job.

Charlie had a lifelong passion for Star Wars, a love that began with the original film and never faded. He was an avid comic book enthusiast—especially devoted to Daredevil—and treasured watching the shows with his family. A history buff, Charlie was particularly fascinated by U.S. military history, and he and Elizabeth made a point of visiting historic ships during their travels.

Those who knew Charlie remember him as the kind of person who would give you the shirt off his back—and if it didn’t fit, he’d find one that did. He was generous with his time and energy, always ready to lend a helping hand to friends, strangers, and animals alike. He was open, approachable, and honest, never afraid to admit when he didn’t know something and always willing to share what he did.

Charlie lived a life of service, courage, and unwavering compassion. He leaves behind a legacy of love, loyalty, and the countless lives he touched with his steady hands, loving heart, and beautiful smile.

He will be incredibly missed.