Cumberland, MD - Charles "Ski" Douglas Bielanski Sr., 61, of Cumberland, Md., passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Sept. 28, 2025.

He was born Nov. 16, 1963, in Baltimore, Md., to the late Peter and Barbara Bielanski. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, James Bielanski.

Ski graduated from Chesapeake High School with the Class of 1981. He began serving his country in the U.S. Army, followed by the U.S. Navy, and continued with the Department of Defense. Afterward, he served as a correctional officer and supervisor with the Maryland Department of Corrections until his retirement Feb. 1, 2024.

He was a member of St. Peter Catholic Church in Westernport, Md., Alhambra Wamba Caravan #89, Knights of Columbus #586, and the LaVale Lions Club. Ski enjoyed traveling and collected a shot glass everywhere he went, backroad rides, tinkering and playing with electronics, especially flashlights. He loved his time with family and friends, listening to music and taking in the outdoors.

Surviving are his wife, Debra K. Bielanski; sons, Charles D. Bielanski Jr. (Susan), Matthew S. Bielanski (Michaela), and Alden R. Wagoner-Bielanski (Chenoa), Dystany K. Arnold (fiancé Joe), Drew N. Arnold (Braillie); eight grandchildren; one great-grandchild; siblings, Sharon Landrum (Carl), Patrice "Peanut" Kellner (Ben), John "Stas'" Bielanski (Susan), Christopher Bielanski (Sabrina) and Tom Meadows (Brenda); father-in-law, Ronald Russell Sr.; brother-in-law, Ronald Russell Jr.; a large extended family and many friends; and his dog, Ebony Angel.

In accordance with his wishes, he will be cremated and a private service will be held at the Maryland Veterans Cemetery at Rocky Gap, including honors accorded by the American Legion Post 13 Honor Guard. All will be invited to a celebration of his life to be held at a later date.

Those wishing to make memorial contributions are asked to direct them to the Alhambra Wamba Caravan, Allegany County Special Olympics, or the LaVale Lions Club.

Scarpelli Funeral Home, P.A., is assisting the family, and condolences can be made at www.ScarpelliFH.com.