Maisie Knowles

North Vassalboro – Maisie Knowles, aka Charlie, Charles Knowles and Charlie Maze, made the decision to give up the struggle of living this life. We are deeply saddened that his struggle with mental illness got the better of him. Faced with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, borderline personality disorder, gender identity and just being a teenager, Charles had an incredibly difficult “hand to play”.

Charles was born on December 9, 1999 in Waterville, the daughter and son of Michelle (McQuillan) and Douglas Knowles. He was educated in local schools and was currently a student at Winslow High School. Although Maze often had great difficulty attending school, he was a bright and productive student when he was there, enjoying especially art, and bringing humor and kindness with him. He also enjoyed anime. He thought of becoming a social and political activist for LGBT children. His interest in tattoo and body piercings held some possibilities as a future career. And then he thought of becoming a forensic psychologist but that lasted one week.

For those who knew Charles he was supportive and would help those in need. He was sincere in his acceptance of others. The eyeglass frames changed as often as the hair color, and musical tastes were eclectic ranging from Queen to Skrillix to The Beatles. And life was forever changed in our household when we acquired the movie “Chappie”.

He is survived by his mother Michelle Knowles of North Vassalboro and his father Douglas Knowles of Skowhegan; his two brothers, David and Drew Tardif; his grandparents: John and Shirley McQuillan, and Thomas Knowles; as well as a circle of friends whom he cared for and cherished as best as he could. He was predeceased by his grandmother Evelyn Knowles. Also, a special friend and mentor, Kevin Dutil, who appreciated Maze’s ever changing style and conviction to create a safe space for all to feel accepted. Also, Bill Crump, who passed before Maze, probably understood Maze’s complicated feelings as well as anyone could and we can all rest assured that Maze often took comfort in this and they are now having conversations in a place where there is no suffering.

A time of gathering and remembering will be held on Saturday November 12, 2016 from 2-4 pm at Veilleux Funeral Home, 8 Elm Street, Waterville. Please visit www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com to view a video collage of Charles’ life and to share condolences, memories and tributes with his family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Charles memory to: Autism Society of Maine, 72B Main Street, Winthrop, ME 04364 or NAMI Maine, 1 Bangor Street, Augusta, ME 04330-4701