Easy-going, kind and compassionate, Decatur House’s newest resident Chuck DiPietro isn’t just movie-star handsome, he’s also a lot of fun, has a great sense of humor, and loves to laugh.
Who is that singing with the pianist? It’s Chuck! Who is going on the outings and participating in painting class? Chuck! Who is enjoying sunshine and conversation on the patio? That’s Chuck too! He’s fitting right in at Decatur House and we couldn’t be happier to have him here.
According to Activities Coordinator, Kerri Smith, “Chuck is wonderful, so helpful. He just feels like a very sweet soul.”
A true Cape Codder, Chuck was born at Tobey Hospital in Wareham and raised right here in Sandwich, where he attended the Henry T. Wing School. He had two brothers and a sister, and his parents ran an ice cream parlor in town.
With both sets of grandparents and lot of aunts, uncles and cousins in town, the family was very close. Aside from all of the family meals and gatherings, when asked about what he remembers, mowing the big lawn in front of their salt box home was the chore that made the biggest impression upon him!
Growing up in a beautiful seaside community, Chuck developed a deep appreciation of the ocean and loved to swim. In fact, he went on to teach swimming at Otis Airforce Base, where his mom worked as a secretary.
From swimming and brick laying to hospitality and acting, Chuck dabbled in many careers and interests over the years. However, it was teaching special education that captured his passion.
Although he says it took him 8-years to complete, Chuck’s proudest accomplishment was earning his degree in special education. He used his well-earned education to work as a teacher at Landmark School, which is world-renowned for its specialized programs for students with learning disabilities such as dyslexia, for 32 years before retiring.
Chuck loved his career as a teacher, his colleagues at Landmark, and most importantly – making a difference in the lives of students.
Interesting fact about Chuck? In college he volunteered for the suicide prevention hotline.
