Charlotte Bown

Charlotte Bown, 83, of Reinbeck, IA, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 16, 2025, at UnityPoint Health - Allen Hospital in Waterloo, IA, surrounded by her loving family. Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, May 24, 2025, at the First Presbyterian Church in Reinbeck. Visitation will be 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Friday, May 23, 2025, at the First Presbyterian Church in Reinbeck. A private burial will take place at later date. In lieu of flowers memorial may be directed to the First Presbyterian Church, 405 Broad Street, Reinbeck, IA.

Charlotte Ann (Mogensen) Bown, was born on September 13, 1941, in Wausau, WI. She graduated from Wausau High School and went on to build a life full of love, creativity, and service. Charlotte married the love of her life, Jerry Lee Bown, on October 26, 1959. They first made their home in Anawa, Wisconsin, before settling in Reinbeck, Iowa, in 1962.

Together, they raised a family and shared a love for the outdoors—camping with their children, fishing, and golfing. For the past 21 years, they enjoyed wintering in Texas, creating cherished memories with friends and each other.

Charlotte was a gifted painter and quilter, and she brought her artistic talents to life as the co-owner of a crafting store called Simple Pleasures. She also loved traveling with Jerry, visiting their favorite places; Branson, Missouri; Yellowstone National Park; Myrtle Beach; and Europe.

A devoted member of her church, Charlotte gave generously of her time through volunteer work. Her warmth, creativity, and kindness touched everyone who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Lynette; grandson, Nicholos; and her parents, George and Hazel Mogensen. She is survived by her husband, Jerry; sons Loren (Mikki), Steve (Chris), and Kevin (Julianne); and son-in-law Larry Besch (Nancy). She was a proud grandmother to Alyssa, Ethan (Bethany), Austin, Olivia (Dylon) Sekula, Taylor, Justin, Kaitlyn, Jackson, Logan, and Megan Besch. She was also blessed with great-grandchildren Cale Bown and Reese Sekula.

Charlotte will be remembered for her generous spirit, her artistic soul, and the deep love she had for her family and friends.