Charlene Henrietta Lauersdorf was born on March 14, 1937 to Martin and Clara Baumgarten in North Freedom, Wisconsin. She became a child of God through holy baptism at St. John's Lutheran Church in Rock Springs, WI, where she also was confirmed in her Christian faith. Charlene was trained as a teacher at Sauk County Teachers' College and Dr. Martin Luther College. She taught God's lambs at St. John's Lutheran School in Sparta, Wisconsin from 1956–1960. On June 26, 1960, she was united in marriage to Richard Lauersdorf at St. John's Lutheran Church in Rock Springs.

Charlene used the many gifts that God had given her to serve the Lord in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada; Ontario and Kendall, WI; Jefferson, WI; and West Bend, WI. Her love of music was evident as she accompanied for church services, sang in choirs and for special services, directed several choirs, composed music for worship and taught piano and organ lessons. Charlene demonstrated her artistic ability in bulletin cover designs, quilts, decorated eggs, paintings and fabric designs. She encouraged others in their faith by co-authoring orders of worship and writing a book for synod publication. Many were inspired by her presentations at various women's and marriage retreats.

Charlene received the gift of eternal life on April 26, 2014, in Mequon, WI. Her entrance into heaven is celebrated by her husband, Richard; children Beth (Roger) Kramp, Milwaukee, WI, Mark (Josee), Lexington, KY, James (Karen), Manhattan, MT and Anne (Clayton) Drewa, Jr., West Bend, WI; grandchildren Megan, Amie, Laura and Colter; 2 step granddaughters; 4 step great-grandchildren; 2 brothers, Lyle Baumgarten of Lime Ridge, WI and David (Carol) Baumgarten of North Freedom, WI; 1 sister, Lois Strobel of Reedsburg, WI; 1 aunt, Violet Vinz of Reedsburg, WI and many relatives and friends.

The Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 30, 2014 from 4:00 PM until 6:45 PM at Good Shepherd Evangelical Lutheran Church (777 S Indiana Ave, West Bend, WI 53095). The Funeral Service will follow at 7:00 PM with Pastor Robert Hein presiding. Private interment will take place at Washington County Memorial Park.

Memorials for Charlene may be given to WELS mission in Brazil, Good Shepherd Lutheran School, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church organ fund or designations by family choice.

"To God be the glory, great things He has done!"