Charlene Sauer

Age 89, passed away on June 24, 2026, at Bronson Methodist Hospital surrounded by her loving family. She was born on February 11, 1937, to Gordon Dewitt and Esther Marguerite (Inman) Eggert.

On June 20, 1958, she married Jack Eugene Sauer. Together, they shared 65 happy years and lovingly raised their three daughters, Mary, Karen, and Paula, before Jack's passing in 2024.

Charlene was a graduate of Edwardsburg High School and went on to earn her bachelor's degree in Home Economics from Western Michigan University. She began her career teaching Home Economics at Parchment High School before spending many happy years working alongside her husband at the Schoolcraft Veterinary Clinic.

Charlene was a devoted and active member of Zion Lutheran Church. For many years, she served the Lutheran Braille Workers, helping to make and distribute Bibles, devotions, and hymns in Braille and large print. As a dedicated 4-H leader, she enjoyed teaching sewing, knitting, and baking skills on to young people.

Charlene loved traveling, gardening, and bird watching. She found great joy in spending time outdoors, especially visiting waterfalls. On family road trips, if there was a nearby waterfall mentioned on the map, a detour was made to visit it! Above all, Charlene was the quiet, steady presence at the heart of her family - always there in the background, supporting the people she loved and ensuring their success.

She is survived by her daughters, Mary (Nelson Games) Sauer-Games, Karen Sauer, and Paula (Walt Tokarchick) Sauer; her grandchildren, Blake Games and Aiden Hursey; her sister-in-law, Patricia Eggert; and numerous extended family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jack Eugene Sauer; her parents; and her brothers, Gerald (Jean) Eggert and Edward Eggert.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, July 17, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Zion Lutheran Church, 2122 Bronson Boulevard, Kalamazoo. Private Interment will be at Schoolcraft Cemetery. Visitation will take place at the church, one hour prior to the service, beginning at 10:00 AM. Memorial contributions may be made to Zion Lutheran Church or the Schoolcraft Community Foundation. Friends and family may leave a condolence message online at www.langelands.com