Charles A. Hart, of Melrose, died surrounded by family on January 25, 2016 at the age of 89. Charles was born in Brookline, MA on May 9, 1926 to Charles and Evelyn (Mahoney) Hart. He was raised in Brookline and graduated from Brookline High School. After high school, Charles enlisted in the United States Navy and served honorably during WWII. Upon returning from the Navy, Charles continued his education by first earning a Bachelor's Degree from Boston College and then earning his Master's Degree in accounting from Boston College. Charles eventually married his wife, the late Janet N. (Adams) Hart and settled down in Melrose in 1963 to raise their family. He worked as a CPA for WHDH for over twenty years in their radio, television, and newspaper divisions and also held the titles of VP and Treasurer. Charles was also a member of the VFW and the American Legion. He liked to travel, in particular to England to visit his brother, as well as to Bermuda with his late wife Janet. Charles was an advocate for individuals with intellectual disabilities/developmental disabilities and their families, beginning when his first son Christopher who was born in 1964. When Christopher became school age the city and school superintendent denied him access to an education. Charles recognized the violation of his sons' rights and took the fight to the Attorney General and then to the Governor. The special education laws in MA were changed and Christopher attended school in the city. Mr. Harts' advocacy continued and he formed an organization for parents in 1976 now known as CCMR, Inc. Charles was the beloved husband of the late Janet N. (Adams) Hart. Loving father of David J. Hart of Melrose and the late Christopher T. Hart. Longtime companion of Doris DeAmicis of Melrose. Grandfather of Randee & Rico. Great-grandfather of Rhianna. Brother of Francis Hart, Patricia Hart, the late John Hart CFX, the late Dorothy Hart SJC, and the late Theresa Barker. Survived by his nieces & nephews; Karen, Kate, Michael & John, who were all with him at the end. Also survived by many loving extended family members. Visiting Hours will be held on Sunday, Jan. 31, 2016 from 2-5 PM At the Gately Funeral Home 79 W. Foster St., Melrose. Funeral from the Gately Funeral Home on Feb. 1, 2016 at 9 AM followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Most Blessed Sacrament Church, Wakefield at 10 AM. Coffee and refreshments will be served immediately following the mass. Interment at Holyhood Cemetery, Brookline, MA at 1 PM. Relatives & friends are respectfully invited to attend. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to CCMR, Inc., P.O. Box 252, Malden, MA 02148.