Charlene Francis Nowlin's Obituary
Charlene Frances Nowlin, 91, of Big Rapids, Michigan passed away Saturday, February 28, 2026 surrounded by her family. She was born in Onondaga, Michigan in 1934 to Burton and Erma (Bush) Baldwin. Most would say that she was a go-getter from an early age. She was always involved in school activities and loved to be around people. No surprise to anyone who knew her, she was described as outgoing and popular. Charlene met Dale Nowlin at 13 years old, and married him when she was 17. They welcomed four beautiful children over the years; Linda, Sandy, Randy, and Diane who meant the world to them. They changed addresses often, but Char’s knack of being able to connect with others meant that they formed lasting relationships wherever they landed. As the children grew up and moved on, Dale and Charlene found themselves managing apartment complexes. She loved the work as well as the people.
She and Dale loved to travel. Upon retirement, they moved to the Smoky Mountains where she soon became involved in a local theater as an usher. She thrived in that job as she loved connecting with people and helping others. After Dale’s passing in 2001, Charlene moved back to Michigan. She couldn’t wait to become part of the community. Over the last 25 years she made many friends here who became more like family. She loved her friends from Bernie’s, Three Girls, the Fairman-Nesbitt apartments, and the Downtown Business committees she served on dearly. She described Big Rapids as the place that felt most like home.
Charlene was warm and welcoming. She had a gift for making others feel included and for connecting with people. She was happiest when surrounded by friends and having a visit. Charlene had a profound love of sports and books and having fun. She was also incredibly resilient. No matter what challenges life threw at her – and there were plenty – she persevered. She is remembered by her loving family of Linda and David May and Sandy and Tim Theunick, 10 grandchildren, 30 great grand-children, and 4 great-great grandchildren, as well as a lifetime of friends.
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