Charlene "Charlie" Hiatt Kahler

Charlene "Charlie" Hiatt Kahler a 35 year resident of Fort Collins passed away suddenly at home on Dec. 20, 2008. She was born to the late Rudolph and Alice Kahler in Rapid City, S.D., on May 27, 1939, and grew up in Idaho Falls, Idaho. She later lived throughout the United States and eventually settled in Fort Collins. In her youth, she raced stock cars and later enjoyed 4x4ing, horseback riding, water skiing, and tractor pulls. She enjoyed life on the edge and playing the odds. She was strong willed, quick witted, independent and enjoyed making people laugh. Her door was always open to friends or soon to be friends. Charlene retired from NCR in 1995. She is preceded in death by her parents; and a nephew, Tony Kahler. She is survived by a sister, Peggy Ralph Wadsworth of Salt Lake City, Utah; and brother, Lamont Joan Kahler of San Diego, Calif.; also by her three daughters, of whom she was very proud, Kathryn Joe Heitmann of Auburn, Wash., Kimberly Bobb Wright of Hilmar, Calif., and Kelly Robert Cromer of Wellington. She leaves behind nine nephews; eight grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren; many friends; and her beloved dachshunds, Streudel & Piper. The family would like to thank all those who befriended "Charlie" and offered a helping hand when she needed it. In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made in her name to The Colorado Dachshund Rescue, The National Multiple Sclerosis Society, or the American Red Cross. A Memorial service to follow in the spring. Friends may send condolences to the family at bohlenderfuneralchapel.com.