Charles Edward Carlson 3rd died unexpectedly on Sept. 5. He was 57.

Charlie was the beloved son of Charles and Eva Carlson of Newtonville, N.Y., and Edgartown. He was born in Madison, Wisc. and spent his formative years in Newtonville and on Martha’s Vineyard. He graduated from Shaker High School in Latham, N.Y. in 1977, and from Middlebury College in Vermont in 1981 with a degree in American literature.

He worked in advertising as a copywriter during the early part of his career, first in Albany and then in New York city. He was responsible for creating numerous well-known and award-winning campaigns. Charlie later joined the Director’s Guild of America and became a noted director of television commercials. As a resident of lower Manhattan for much of his life, one of his proudest accomplishments was participating in the award-winning campaign titled I Am an American, filmed on the streets of New York city during the week after Sept. 11, 2001 and celebrating the diversity of America.

During the latter part of his career, Charlie was active in the petroleum business, working in Connecticut and, eventually, founding his own company based out of Nigeria. Charlie followed many creative pursuits throughout his life, including photography, art, and writing that manifested his extraordinary artistic talents. Charlie also was an avid saltwater fly fisherman and sailor, and spent many happy days building lasting memories with family and friends on and near the waters of Martha’s Vineyard.

In addition to his parents, survivors include his treasured daughter Mae Forbes Carlson of Philadelphia, Pa.; siblings and best friends Nancy Carlson of Richmond, Vt. and Paul Carlson of Aptos, Calif.; and four much-loved nieces and nephews.

As he wished, Charles will have his final resting place on Martha’s Vineyard. Services will be private. Donations in his memory may be made to a charity of one’s choice.