Dr. Charles Christopher Ouimet, 76, formerly a resident of Tallahassee, Florida, passed away on May 2nd, 2023 in the care of Hospice of Marion County from metastatic cancer. Charles was born April 6th, 1947 to Mary and Charles Ouimet in New Bedford, Massachusetts.
From the time he obtained his first chemistry set, Charles demonstrated an unwavering passion for science. He received his Ph.D. in neuroscience from Brown University in 1980, and then completed his postdoctoral study at the Yale University School of Medicine. He accepted a faculty position at Rockefeller University and later joined the faculty at Florida State University, where he was instrumental in founding the College of Medicine. His area of research focused on neurodegeneration, most specifically addressing the mechanisms underlying Alzheimer’s Disease.
In addition to his research, Charles was a beloved professor, earning so many teaching awards that the award was eventually given the eponym, “The Charles Ouimet Excellence in Teaching Award.” When not in his lab or in the lecture halls, Charles could be found sailing the Gulf of Mexico with his wife and first mate, Janice. After his retirement, he spent much of his time playing guitar, listening to Beethoven, and delighting in his many grandchildren.
Charles is survived by his wife, Janice Ouimet; his children, Erin Thompson, Adam Ouimet, and Sally Waters; his grandchildren, Noah and Freya Tuomi; Henry, Eliza, and Maverick Waters; and Sawyer, River, Jasper, and Asher Ouimet. He also leaves behind his sisters and brother, Mary Elaine Viera, Catherine McLaughlin, and Christopher Ouimet, as well as his beloved nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, Charles and Mary Ouimet, and his eldest brother, Kevin Ouimet.
A memorial service will be held at a future date to celebrate his life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org to honor his life-long dedication to advancing Alzheimer’s research.