AURP is saddened to share our dear friend, Charles Day Dilks passed away peacefully at home on December 28th, 2024. He was 83.
His life was a testament to his life motto -carpe diem- seize the day. Tying his business and philanthropic work to his love for the outdoors, he stitched together diverse interests to form a vibrant life characterized by integrity and enthusiasm.
Charlie was a friend to all, and always ready to offer his kindness and support. He served as a mentor and trusted advisor to those new to the research park community, staying at the forefront of the evolution of research parks and innovation districts especially with this thoughtful dialogue with veteran members.
An AURP Past President (1998-2000), Charlie was a founding member, convening peers to establish the Association in 1986. He was a integral link between the first generation of AURP leaders to those who followed.
In later lean years, it was through his support and guidance that the organization turned into the thriving network of today.
Charlie was a distinguished and inspiring leader having received the AURP Appreciation Award (2021), Career Achievement Award (2001), and served on the Board of Directors for many years.
His remarkable enthusiasm for life plus passions for exploration, nature, and family/friends will be sorely missed.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm on Sunday, January 12th at the Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields, 8000 St. Martin’s Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19118.
Charlie is predeceased by his parents and his brothers, John and Peter. Charlie is survived by his sister Anne Dilks Grandin, by his wife of 56 years, Gene, their three children Christina Taylor, Charles Jr. (Chay), and Mark. He is also blessed with five fabulous grandchildren and a host of beloved nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his name to the organizations that Charlie loved and supported during this lifetime:
- The Class of 1959 Fund at Westminster School, 995 Hopmeadow Street, Simsbury, CT 06070
- Yale Alumni Chorus Foundation Scholarship Fund, Box 209036, New Haven, CT 06520 or online at Yalealumnichorus.org
- Association of University Research Parks (AURP), c/o HBL CPAs, 5470 E. Broadway Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85711
- The Chestnut Hill Conservancy, Conservation and Easement Program, 8708 Germantown Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19118