Charles J. Maguire

charles maguire
Charles John Maguire died peacefully in his sleep on October 27, 2020 after a battle with blood cancer. Charles was born on July 13, 1938 in Ireland to Dr. Charles and Mrs. May Maguire of Kiltegan, Wicklow.

He received a BS in Agricultural Sciences (1959) from University College Dublin and a PhD in Agricultural Economics (1977) from the University of Minnesota. In 1960, he met the love of his life, Vimala De Croos, a chemistry teacher from Sri Lanka. They married in 1966 in London and ultimately settled in McLean, VA. For 54 years, Charles and Vimala enjoyed walks in all weathers, traveling, art, music and hosting friends and family in their beautiful homes in McLean and Galway.

An avid soccer fan, Charles refereed games and coached a women’s team while living in Minnesota. When not spending time with family and friends, Charles enjoyed reading, swimming, and playing soccer.

In his twenty-six-year career as a Senior Institutional Development Specialist in the Natural Resources Division of the World Bank's Agriculture and Natural Resources Department, Charles transformed agricultural education in developing countries by advocating for training to meet the challenges of climate change, urbanization, and environmental sustainability. After his retirement in 2008, Charles continued to work as a consultant on projects in Indonesia, Korea, India, Uganda, and Sri Lanka. He also worked as a consultant for FAO in Rome.

Charles is remembered by his colleagues and friends for his wicked sense of humor and his ability to work with people from all over the world. Schools of agricultural education all over the developing world benefited from his humility and wisdom. Younger colleagues at the Bank remember his generous mentorship.

Charles is mourned by his wife, Vimala Maguire, three brothers: Jim (Ann) Maguire and Edward Maguire, both of Ireland; Tom (Lorri) Maguire, of Edmonton, Canada, and Vim’s numerous brothers, sisters, and in-laws in the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, and Sri Lanka. His many nephews and nieces and their children will fondly remember Charles’ silly games and uproariously funny stories, but also his wise counsel and kindness. His family and friends all over the world will miss laughing with him while sharing meals and wine, watching soccer matches with him over bottles of his favorite Irish whiskey, and discussing politics with him.

In lieu of flowers a donation in Charles's memory should be sent to the American Cancer Society.

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Guestbook

  1. The Owners and Staff at the Money and King Funeral Home, wish to express our sincere sympathy to you. It is our hope that we may be able to make a difficult time more bearable. Please feel free to call us anytime as we are always available to you. Bob Gallagher Funeral Director

  2. Dear Vim, our hearts go out to you. Charles was loved by all and our most vivid memories of him are of all the laughter! May the good memories sustain you. Catherine and Jankees.

  3. This is so Charles!! His humor, charm and intelligence were shared by all he knew!! We shared this on a trip to Oregon!!

  4. Dearest Vim and family, You are in our hearts as we say goodbye to Charles. He is leaving a legacy of joyous memories, a love of life and a vital contribution to agriculture in the developing world. With sadness and love from London, Rosemary, David and Acadia.

  5. On top of his many intellectual and human qualities, Charles was a world class story teller, definitely the funniest person I ever met in my 77 year life. He and Vim were also among the most hospitable people I ever met. I will give just one example of their remarkable hospitality: in 2000, they invited me to their beautiful home in Mc Lean. I stayed there more than a week (afraid of overstaying, but they insisted on my staying longer), recuperating from a severe bout of depression. A depressed person’s company is , well, depressing and boring, but Vim and Charles did not mind at all, and their priority was my welfare in difficult times. I will never forget Charles.

  6. Charles Maguire was one of the people who interviewed me when I applied for a job at the World Bank, many years ago. He went quickly through the basics of education, formal experience and honed in on the bigger questions, as he saw them: commitment to poverty, and thus to the poor. As it turned out, we had quite similar views, and compared notes on “participation” a novelty idea in the World Bank in 1988. But towards the end of the interview Charles started talking about his views on what actually helps a lot in development, and –critically important—where outside institutions could make a difference. He mentioned the key role of knowledge and information for the rural poor, and how to make sure the World Bank would contribute to the development of a solid cadre of local specialists with global links to research, extension and education. It no longer felt like a job interview, as Charles put me completely at ease, and we found much common ground. When I got up to thank him, he looked at me with his modest, yet mischievous smile, and asked: “Are you really sure you want to join this institution?” Over the years, Charles and I got to work closely together. We were both specialists in our field that we called rural information and knowledge systems. He, together with a few colleagues including myself, started sharing good practices in “empowerment through knowledge” within and outside the Bank. It actually made significant changes in the amount of World Bank lending, and in the quality of the projects themselves. At one of our meetings Charles gave yet another presentation, and coined the phrase “feeding the beast”, meaning that staff spent most of their time on World Bank procedures, rather than focusing on actual products, and results in the field. Many colleagues remembered that phrase, and the picture Charles made of “the beast”. Over the years, Charles and his wife Vim became good personal friends. Vim’s outstanding cooking obviously helped to make the evenings memorable, but when there were only a few people left, Charles started sharing some of his more deeply held opinions, showing a sensitive, complimentary yet very smart side of himself. I was always intrigued, as in his younger years he had been a formidable rugby player, and despite his self-effacing personality, he still had a physique that would impress any foolish rugby player on the other side. At the same time, Charles was a great diplomat. That was evident in his careful formulation of issues and possible solutions of “the Troubles” in Northern Ireland, and more immediately in our carpool. For many years Charles and I were members of the same carpool that included a number of strongly opiniated white males. What we lacked in fact, or could not exactly remember, we made up with the strength in the delivery of our arguments. At times the atmosphere got a little heated, and it was often Charles who defused the situation, and often using splendid humor. His wonderfully sweet side was also evident in his relationship with the love of his life, Vim, who he idolized, and she him. Charles loved joking till Vim had tears streaming down her cheeks, begging him to stop. I was also fortunate enough to stay with Charles and Vim in their lovely house in Ireland. They took me around and introduced me to their friends. It was wonderful to see how easily they had created yet another network, as they had done in many places around the world. Of course, Vim is a networker extraordinaire, but the initial humor of Charles, gradually showing a deep and smart mind, was as important to sustain their friendships, that still exist across the whole world. I am very grateful for Charles’ friendship, and I will miss him dearly. Willem

  7. If I ever were allowed to choose an uncle, then Charles was my choice. I did actually have the luxury of such an adoption because neither of my parents had any siblings of their own, and we hung out with Vim and Charles and Mishwi (the handsomest labrador of the 20th century that Charles was able to talk so effortlessly with) often enough. So Charles was the only uncle I ever had, funny and cool all the time, and wise and supportive when it really mattered, too. Made me feel like I was part of the family. Sometimes I would say or write that you were the best uncle I never had. Actually, that was just my way of saying I love you. And I’m guessing you understood that all along, anyway. Long live the beautiful memories and life-loving spirit of Charles Maguire!

  8. Liang and Jeffrey will forever remember Charles as a true gentleman – always interesting… and always interested!

  9. Charlie, you were a unique and special person who lit up every room. We will always miss you and never forget you. From all the Maguires in Tuam.

  10. On my life journey I have had the privilege of associating with some very fine people. Charles and my cousin NAME will certainly top the list. Charles was blessed with abundance of generosity, kindness and a very sharp sense of humour. One incident, which I will always remember was in the early 1970’s when I was coming to England to further my studies. At that time the government of Sri Lanka was allowing me to take out a paltry one-time amount of 50 pounds for a 4-year course and I was trying to figure out how I could pay my yearly fees which was much more than that. It was around that time Charles and Vim were visiting Sri Lanka and I happened to mention my problem to them. Charles without any hesitation promised to take care of my 1st year’s fees and came through soon after. Many years later, after I had settled in Canada, on one of my visits with them I tried to pay back that loan, He told me that I would not be getting off that easily and I will have to owe it to him for the rest of my life. I also know that he had been very generous to many others who had crossed his path. I will indeed owe him for the rest of my life. Subsequently I visited them many times and enjoyed their great company and I am left with many wonderful memories. More than once occasion on such trips, I recall drinking gallons of fine wine with wonderful cooking of my cousin, several nightcaps of his fine Irish whiskey and finally staggering off to bed. A framed picture of him and my cousin Vim and others who have been kind to me has adorned my night table and will be there always. With a heavy heart I bid goodbye to my dear friend Charles and you will always be in my thoughts. Cousin Sorna

  11. It was an honor to have him in my life, Vim and Charles are my extended family in the US. The loveliest couple, full of wisdom and kindness. I was always happy and grateful to be with them, traveling, having a delicious meal cook by Vim or enjoying a great conversation about their trips or learning about their love story. Everyone wanted to be with them, they irradiate Love. My children loved him and will miss him greatly. Hope that the happy times together and many memories give Vim comfort and peace. My thoughts and prayers are with Vim and her family.

  12. Devastated to hear of the passing of Charles, such a gorgeous couple he and Vim were. The kindest people.We were so lucky to have met you both In Renville,Co.Galway we always wished ye could be our permanent neighbours.My deepest sympathies to you Vim and all the family ,we will always think of him,sending much love ,Dianne,Padhraig,Hailey & Allie Coyne, Renville,Oranmore,Co.Galway x x x

  13. Vim our deepest thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. We remember the great times we had with both you and Charles in Renville

  14. Charlie and Vim, what a couple! what honestly wonderful, faithful and nice friends you ‘ve been for us! From 1971 in Mpls, to January , 2018 in Jacksonville, Florida; through Cameroon. Charlie, you ‘ve never changed all these years, your humor never got a wrinkle: the same warmth, same sens of humor, good laughter…Hope you carried your good humor where you are so that we can continue to enjoy it when we get there! Vim, Vim ,Vim… what else can we say… Always in our hearts, Raphael and Ruth

  15. Natasha M. De Croos (Canada)

    We are so lucky and blessed to have had someone like Uncle Charles in our lives. He always made you smile, laugh, and be at ease when you were in his company. Heaven just become a little brighter, always in our hearts. Love you Uncle Charles and Auntie Vim. Always, Melanie xo?

    Irish Blessing

    May the road rise to meet you.
    May the wind be always at your back.
    May the sun shine warm upon your face,
    and the rain fall soft upon your fields,
    and until we meet again.
    May God hold you in the hallow of his hands.

  16. Dearest Vim,
    Our deepest condolences to you and your families–we really feel for you. Charles was a great man in every way. We will forever remember wonderful feasts at your beautiful home with Charles entertaining us all with thoughtful conversation and hilarious stories that only he could tell. He still brings a smile to our face when thinking of him, and we miss him dearly.
    Much love Vim.
    Pat and Shane

  17. I am Tom.the youngest of the Maguire brothers. I am 74 and have spent my professional life as a Family Physician on the Prairies of Western Canada. My daughter(Tricia) and kids live in Edmonton Our son Mike lives in Singapore My wife(Lorri) and I live in Edmonton The Maguire’s grew up in a tiny village set amongst the Wicklow mountains south of Dublin. Our father was the village Doctor Our mother taught us to be appropriate and gentle men and in the process imparted her amazing sense of humor to each of us. When Charlie went to university a loss was evident in our lives When he graduated with a BAgrSc and went to Nigeria as a teacher we were devastated.Back in those days a lot of emigrants never returned.We didn’t know at the time that Charlie had joined the Irish Diaspora as I did some years later. In the Village Charlie was the “go to” person for many seeking advice on basic farming problems even when he was a student.This trait permeated his life and he was obviously well equipped to assist people from poorer countries in their journey of bettering their lot in life. It is my belief (unbiased!!) that Charlie would have great at whatever chosen career he had followed. In our family he was legendary! His was a will and a spirit so intense and vital that the world in 80 plus years has failed to tame. Those of us who interacted with Charlie will I am sure will support this statement. A curse on the “House of Covid 19”!! We were prevented from seeing Charlie end his Earthly journey and begin his soaring to his Heavenly home and to the loving embrace of our Mother. Covid also deprived us from sending him “on” with a unique Irish Wake! The cold wet winds of Winter are blowing off the Wicklow Mountains tonight. The winds are howling in the century old Oak trees in the village. If you pause and listen carefully you will hear the message of the winds, “CHARLIE MAGUIRE IS DEAD” Ar deis de go raib a annam

  18. There is a great emptiness left by Charles’s passing. I am certain that the strength of the love that Charles shared with you for more than 53 years will get you through this difficult time. We especially remember your wedding; as your brother, I had the privilege of walking you to the alter in London England on a beautiful sunny winter morning. This was the start of your wonderful journey together with Charles. Charles was a gentleman – honest, humble and straight forward, he had the ability to get along with everyone. His sense of humor kept any gathering going; he was a fan of all sports and you could talk to him on any subject, he was always very considerate of others. Charles was our “go to person” for any problems we had. His mentorship provided guidance to our family where and when required. Every man’s life begins and ends the same way. It is only the details of how he lived and how he died that distinguishes one man from another. Charles was kind and admirable, he has set the example on how life should be lived. Goodbye sweet Prince, God wants you back. Our loss is heaven’s gain. Vino and Jeyarani De Croos, (brother and sister in-law) Calgary Alberta, Canada

  19. Dear Charles ~ we celebrate you and your life so very well-lived – full of kindness humor love and help to others. We miss you but know you’re at rest

  20. RIP dear Charles. May you find peace in the arms of angels as they carried you home. Your smile and humor will be missed by many. Love you always, Mark, Laurie, Jason & Emira De Croos British Columbia Canada

  21. First of all, we would like to extend our most sincere condolences to Vim and all the other loved ones, for which Charles meant so much. We would have loved to come to Poppy Drive to share your grief, but alas the pandemic prevents our travel from the Netherlands We will remember Charles for the most humorous stories, in particular about Ireland, his kindness in dealing with people, his courtliness, in particular with ladies, and extraordinary love and care for Vim. We had the great pleasure of traveling with Charles and Vim through several parts of Europe. Some odd memories of “these travels with Charley” cover searching for the real Belgian French fries in Bruges, but ending up having them in Middelburg, the Netherlands in the rain. Or, our memorable trip through a number of East-European countries, with visits to a rebuilt Dresden, the Black Madonna Cathedral near Cracow, and the beauty of Budapest and Vienna, with Charles’ negotiating skills of getting us almost for free in the front row in Vienna’s Opera for a great concert. And, of course our last trip together through Northern Spain, with, as in all trips, plenty of good food and wine from Vim’s restaurant selection, and great stories from the back of the car from Charles. But, not to forget all the great times we spent together at Poppy Drive, where Charles taught us special skills, such a chucking oysters (“chucking with Chuck”), where we discussed the world, and enjoyed Vim’s great food, doused with Charles’ wine selection. We hope to be able to cross the Ocean in the near future, and pop in at Poppy Drive to physically express our condolences to Vim. We are sure that the welcoming warmth will still be there but Charles will be dearly missed.

  22. Uncle Charles Maguire will remain in our hearts forever. Thank you for your kindness & humor. Auntie Vimala may you find comfort and peace.

  23. The times we have spent with Charles and my sister/SIL has been some of the most enjoyable times we have ever had. Charles you will be missed.

  24. Dear Vim, Charles possessed qualities to spare, from his inborn Irish wit and charm to his ability to relate in so many ways to others. To be with him was to be made to feel special in his regard. You and he were indeed a team, partners who engaged every facet of life in sharing and considerate ways. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers as you close a long and truly amazing chapter in your life. We wish you courage and hope as you turn the page to what comes next. This we do know, Charles’ spirit will remain with you and all who had the good fortune to know him. Fondly and with love, Joanne and Bob

  25. Dear Aunty Vim, We wish to express our deepest sympathy. Uncle Charles was an amazing man. His charm, usual spunk and swagger aligned with all generations. He was a master at being there for everyone and he did it with style and class. All that knew him are richer with lasting memories. The memories are endless of Uncle Charles and although his passing hurts so much, you can’t help but smile or laugh remembering the great memories he gave us – and then we feel happy again. A favorite memory of mine was enjoying Fat Boys beer with Charles on your patio while smoking a salmon in the smoker and just having simple conversations on everything. Janine and Nathanuel loved his stories most, specifically of his childhood and good humor topics about his dislike for oatmeal and boiled eggs. Matthew had the privilege of attending a Washington Capitals hockey game with him and even though Uncle Charles was not feeling well, he gave his very best effort to ensure Matthew had a memorable experience. Thank you, Aunty Vim, for sharing Uncle Charles with us for without you no special memories are possible, we will really miss him. We know that the vault of precious memories you shared with Uncle Charles as well as your courage will help you through the difficult times. Wishing you peace, love and happiness moving forward. Love, Van, Janine, Nathanuel and Matthew

  26. On behalf on all Charlie’s nephews and nieces in Ireland, I wish to express our great sadness of uncle Charlie’s passing. Uncle Charlie was an exceptional man who brought immense kindness, joy and laughter into our lives all throughout our childhood and to this day. From his big hugs to his jokes at the dinner table which brought tears to our eyes, the memories will live on forever. He was a role model for all of us in the way he lived his life with such positivity and kindness for others. We wish Vim all the strength in the world at this time and wish we could be there with her. Rest in Peace Uncle Charlie Xxx

  27. Uncle Charles we will truly miss you, you were a big part of our family . It was great planing yours and Aunty Vim 5Oth Anniversary party . It was a joyous celebration. Aunty Vim, Please know you are in our hearts and prayers, just remember the good times you and Uncle Charles had and this will get you through this difficult time . May God bless you. Love always , Karine, Derek , Maija and Isaiah (Whitby, Ontario , Canada )

  28. What wonderful memories… I did not have to dig deep. They are right here at the surface, easy to reach, vibrant, vivid and very much alive. I can still feel the anticipation and excitement preceding every one of your visits to France, always cause for celebration, promises of joy, laughs and good times. I can still feel the heat of that evening at La Ferme in Croix-de-Vie, the wood fire, grilled eels, the breathless dancing. I can still hear the Rolling Stones blaring in the living room as we came back late and when you, slightly inebriated adults, decided that the party must go on. At that point, I realized there was apparently no such thing as too much fun, even though I remember being slightly concerned for my dove Faline. Could a little bird handle that much human fun? I can still taste the crabs at St Michael’s, and those at Chincoteague, cracking under our hammers, their shells scattered over the table, and later all over the steps of the house as the trash bag, heavy with the remains of our decadent feast, ripped open as poor Liz was taking it out. I can feel the humid heat of the streets of McLean as I liked walking Mechoui around the neighborhood, and the total sense of helplessness when he decided to escape me to go chase an irresistible squirrel. I can feel the coolness of your basement where I spent hours watching old movies and thought “this is the life”. I can also “smell” the house we rented in Provence because I got a little bottle of Ylang Ylang from a market and used to perfume the little bed you helped me make for the sparrow I found in Aix-en-Provence (I can’t help thinking that’s probably what ended up killing it, and since then cannot stand the smell of Ylang Ylang…). I can still feel my pride when my dad, you and I went fishing and, to your slight frustration, I ended up being the only one catching something despite the fact I had never touched a fishing pole before in my life. I can still feel the anticipation of your arrival in New Orleans as I could not wait to introduce you to my then very tiny Nora. I can still feel the relief of finally arriving at your house after driving around the whole country seeking shelter from the aftermath of Katrina and of finding your door open, as it always is, and a place that truly felt like home. As you see, it is all right here, very close. And it is all about unwavering friendship, warmth and happiness. I love you very much, my dear “false” godfather (so much better and more interesting than a “real” one!) and will be missing you…

  29. Charles will live forever in our fondest memories of joyful, warm moments. I am thinking of you, Vim, and wish I could be closer to support you.

  30. Charles was a good friend..we carpooled together for years to the World Bank. We discussed, chatted, joked, gossiped . Admired Charles wit, intelligence and patience. Will miss a good friend. All the best to Vim during these difficult days. May Charles rest in peace.

  31. Dear Vim & family, We share the sentiments being expressed by his friends. We have beautiful memories of him teaching me how to be a referee and his patient and sagacious way with us. May he rest in peace. We will miss him. With lots of love, Elsa & Sunil

  32. In Loving Memory of Uncle Charles By: Janine (Jenny De Croos) Johnson Uncle Charles first entered my life in England. He was already married to my Aunty Vim at the time and thus began our relationship as Uncle and niece. My siblings and I were always very excited for Uncle Charles and Aunty Vim’s visits, as with those visits, came relaxed dinners, sharing of stories, laughter and silliness. Uncle Charles was a very good storyteller. His stories were always filled with jokes and punchlines that were bound to put a smile on anyone’s face. Some of his stories were so intriguing that they often seemed to have a fictional element around them. However, in Uncles Charles case and due to his experiences from his journeys around the world, these stories were true, and always kept you at the edge of your seat begging to hear more. The way in which he spoke made you want to listen attentively, and I often found myself immersed in whatever story he told. When he was done sharing his story, I always walked away feeling educated, motivated and inspired. Uncle Charles was funny and lighthearted. Just being in his presence made you feel happy. He was a great teacher of life and strived to enjoy every moment of it. In the times spent with him he was always eager to share his wisdom, kindness and generosity. Though he was well known for being outgoing, he was an even better listener. It was very easy to talk to Uncle Charles as he always took the time to listen to your opinions and ask questions about how you were doing. Alongside listening he also gave the best advice. His advice always came from a genuine place and always made you feel as though everything would be okay. Uncle Charles and Aunty Vim’s love for each other was always visible. When you saw them together, you could only marvel at how strong, magical and genuine their relationship was. The love that they shared was contagious to every single person they met. They always made an effort to spend time with their family and friends as they made sure to attend weddings, events and gatherings all across the world. It is these times that I cherish the most. As far as generosity goes, Uncle Charles and Aunty Vim have opened their doors to all of us niece’s and nephew’s, students, spouse’s and friends. It didn’t matter the circumstances that brought you into their lives, they would take you in and treat you as if you were family. Together they were always entertaining, and we were all blessed to be in their company. Traveling with them was always an adventure. I seemed to have a lot of shopping experiences with Uncle Charles and whenever we got the chance we would be in search of the best cantaloupe, dark chocolate or Weetabix (we both shared the love of Weetabix). One of my favourite memories was when we went shopping at the liquor store in Canada where we had filled two big shopping carts of alcohol. We had so many bottles of liquor it could barely fit into my minivan. Uncle Charles, you were a lovely, kind and inspirational man, an unforgettable uncle and a father figure with genuine love for life and for everyone. We have lost a wonderful soul and human being. It is our memories of you, your stories you shared, your wisdom you provided and your joy for life that will carry us through these hard times. These thoughts will give us strength as we remember the magnitude of your personality and the love that you brought to all of our lives. To my dear Aunty Vim, you always have a daughter in me. We will grieve together, remember the happy memories, and build strength together in the moments that will be difficult. And even though we aren’t able to be physically there, we are emotionally with you to help you through these harder times. Love Jenny.

  33. My Dear Uncle Charles, May you rest in peace, as we celebrate your life and how you enriched our lives. Love: Van, Janine, Nathanuel and Matthew

  34. To honour our dear friend, Charles, of whom we will keep many happy memories of good times shared. With much affection, Chris and Karen.

  35. Our deepest sympathies to our dear cousin Vimala Acca/Auntie. We got an opportunity to get acquainted closely with Charles during your 50th anniversary celebration in Toronto. During when we all realized his kind & compassionate nature, witticism and friendly character. We all admired him. Charles will be missed. Much love, Shan, Srisakthi, Gajanan & Gajathayini

  36. Our deepest sympathies to our dear cousin Vimala Acca/Auntie. Charles will be missed. God bless you. Much love, Shan, Srisakthi, Gajanan & Gajathayini

  37. Sending you all heartfelt condolences. I am very grateful to have met Charles. I will never forget the many wonderful meals shared with him and Vim.

  38. So very sad to hear this very sad new. He was a a true gentleman and remember him fondly from the World Bank Irish Lunches. RIP. Tanya Loftus.


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