Charleen Brown (Nee Kirk) of Black Diamond passed away peacefully
surrounded by her family on Wednesday January 15, 2025,
at the age of 74.
Charleen is survived by her loving husband, John, of 48 years, her son
Jim (Amber) and daughter-in-law Kim.
She was a proud Grams to Makayla, Madison, Joanne Desbiens
(Rob Dutchak), and Allen Desbiens (Jasmine); great Grams to Eli,
Raeden, Thomas, Zac and Cooper. She is also survived by her
siblings Bob (Donna), Doreen, Doris, Len (Winnie), Rhoda, Larry
(Marlene), and sisters-in-law Linda (Matt), Kathy-Jo (Cory), as well
as many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her son, Buster, parents Tom and Pauline
Kirk, brother Ken, father and mother-in-law, Charlie and Ruby Brown,
brothers-in-law Harry Davidson, and Ernie Parnell and sisters-in-law
Ann Kirk, Laurie Kirk, and Betty Kirk.
Charleen was born in High River on February 4, 1950, and grew up in
Longview. At the age of 14, during the summer, Charleen went to work
for a local farmer, Ralph Nichols. She cooked and baked meals on an
old wood stove, for Ralph and his hired hands.
Charleen married her soulmate and love of her life, John, in 1976
and lived in Black Diamond where they raised their boys, Buster
and Jim. Charleen graduated from Turner Valley High School, then
went on to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). She worked
in the Fort McMurry Hospital, the old Turner Valley Hospital, and
the Rockyview General Hospital. Later in her career she worked at
the Oilfields Hospital as an LPN and in the physio department for
many years. Charleen’s true calling came when she took several
courses in the holistic healing field. She had many talents with
her healing abilities, both physical and emotional, that positively
impacted many clients, friends, and family who went to her for help.
She had a way of making everyone feel special and loved.
Charleen had some big obstacles with her health over the years,
but always remained positive, and fought hard with determination,
perseverance, grace and courage.
Charleen cherished her family and friends and would do anything for
them. She had a special spot in her heart for her grandchildren and
great grandchildren, and her face would light up so proudly when
talking about them. Charleen welcomed everyone with a big smile and
an even bigger hug. Her laugh was contagious and everyone around
her felt her positive energy.
Charleen loved camping, playing cards, a fun game of beads, or making
special birthday greeting cards.
Charleen will be remembered for her healing powers, her generosity,
and her ability to make everyone feel loved and welcomed. Her love will
forever be felt, and her memory will never be forgotten for all who were
fortunate enough to know her.
In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Longview Seniors
Club. c/o Box 283 Longview, AB T0L 1H0.
A celebration of Charleen will be held on February 1, 2025, at 1:00 at
the Longview Community Hall.
