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Jean L. Charles, born March 14, 1933, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by her children on March 14, 2024, at the age of 91 years.  

Jean is preceded in death by her parents, Louise and William Ehly; her loving husband of 63 years, John Charles and her daughter Sandra Van Alstine, and her brother Ron Ehly.

Jean is survived by her children Mario (Cheryl), Mariana (Bill), William Ciaglia, Vincent (Karen), Gina (Tom), Joseph (Michelle), and son-in-Law Mike VanAlstine.  She was blessed with 26 grandchildren and 45 great grandchildren.  

Our mother’s faith in God was strong and she made sure we knew the lord.  She taught us value because we saw it with our parents daily.  Jean was a resident in this area for 50 plus years in Center City.  

When we were growing up, our mother worked for the Chisago Lakes School District as a head cook for 29 years in between raising her children and working on the farm.  She raised many animals from chickens to cattle, and had beautiful flower and vegetable gardens.  She also enjoyed making braided rugs and quilts, and loved sewing, canning and cooking.  

She loved family gatherings and was so full of life.  Jean was well respected in the community.  All our friends from school loved her and thought of her as a second mom, and of course our house was always open to them.   Among all these things, she was also a Scout mom, a hockey mom and always involved in something.  Our Holidays were huge, and we were never without family, food and laughter.   All we can say is that we were very lucky to have such an amazing mother.  She will be missed always and forever.  

A special thank you to the St. Croix Hospice team, we will never forget how you cared for and loved our mother.  

To Home Instead… Our two girls who took care of our mother, Thank you very much.  She loved all of you.  God Bless you all. 

Mass of Christian Burial 11 a.m. Saturday, April 6, 2024 at St. Bridget of Sweden Catholic Church in Lindstrom, Minnesota.  Visitation one hour prior to service at church.  Interment at Hillside Cemetery in Center City, Minnesota.  Arrangements by Grandstrand Funeral Home in Lindstrom, Minnesota.  Condolences may be expressed online at www.grand strandfh.com

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