Charlyn Dowling-Smith

Charlyn Dowling-Smith, 80, passed away on April 11, 2024 surrounded by loved ones.

Charlyn was born on March 2, 1944 in Denver, Colorado to Jorn and Martha Dowling-Anderson. She was known for her intelligence and also the quick-wittedness she had about her. Charlyn served in the U.S. Navy for three years and was stationed in Connecticut and Virginia during her time served. After the military, she attended Colorado State University where she received her degree in social work and went onto work for Polk County as a social worker for 15 years. Before moving to Iowa, Charlyn had met her husband of 40 years, Clyde.

Charlyn lived a very active life. She enjoyed spending a great amount of time outdoors. Charlyn found her love for camping during her time spent at church camping trips in Colorado, this is also when her love for hiking and fishing began. Charlyn, Clyde, and their miniature poodle, Pepper, shared their love for traveling and both favored going to see the beauty of Maine. Charlyn and Clyde were able to share the memories of all of their trips together which had included 46 of the 50 states in the US. Charlyn enjoyed spending her time gardening and tending to her flowers. Throughout her life, Charlyn shared her time and her love volunteering for church activities with children and found so much enjoyment while doing this.

Charlyn is survived by her husband Clyde; her sisters Jorenne Dowling-Dionisi, Christy (Vicki Knecht) Dowling.

She was preceded in death by both of her parents; her step-father Carl Anderson; and her beloved miniature poodle, Pepper.

Funeral Service will be held at Mount Olive Lutheran Church located at 5625 Franklin Avenue, Des Moines, on Thursday, April 25, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. Charlyn will be laid to rest with military honors at 11:00 a.m. at Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter, Iowa.

Memorial contributions may be directed to her husband Clyde.
Condolences may be expressed at www.Hamiltonsfuneralhome.com

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