Charlene Boland

Charlene “Char” A. Boland - a wife, a mother, a sister, a grandmother, and a friend to many - passed away January 21, 2023, at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa at age 75. She was born January 21, 1948, in Isanti, Minnesota to Edgar and Norma (Jenison) Kleven. Charlene graduated from East Chain High School in Granada, Minnesota, class of 1966. Following graduation, Charlene attended Jackson Vocational School receiving a bookkeeping certification. She married John Boland in September 1967 at the Methodist Church in Swea City, Iowa. In 1972, John and Charlene moved to Mason City, Iowa where they built a house, raised their family, and considered this their home for 50 years.

An incredibly strong woman, Charlene took care of those around her without hesitation. The love she had for her family and friends was unmatched and shown in countless ways. Charlene taught her family how to speak up, how to have a good time, and to never hesitate to try something new (especially regarding a new recipe). Charlene was a force to be reckoned with, but always standing for those she loved.

Charlene will forever be remembered for the love she had for her family, her strong will (that actually only meant her way or the highway), and her palate for fine wine (or really any wine at all).

Charlene was preceded in death by her brother, Roger; her father, Edgar; brother-in-law, Du Wayne; and her mother, Norma.

Her memory will be forever remembered and cherished by her husband, John; children, Randy (Leah) and Jodie (Matt); grandchildren, Britney and Chase (Maddie); and her siblings, Loren (Irene) and Dolores.

Services for Charlene will be held Monday, January 30, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines, Iowa with visitation one hour prior. She will be laid to rest at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery at 12:30 p.m. with a reception to follow at Hamilton’s.

Flowers and donations can be sent to Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway.

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