Charlene June Vargovich

IRONWOOD, Mich. - Charlene June Vargovich, 72, of Ironwood, earned her heavenly wings and is now free to paint the heavens above. Charlene passed away peacefully on Sunday, Feb. 19, 2023, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital with family by her side.

Charlene was born on May 16, 1950, in Wakefield, daughter of Oliver and Genevieve (Morrison) Kahila.

Charlene attended Wakefield schools and graduated in 1968. Following graduation, she married Steve Vargovich Jr. and together they raised a family of their own in parts of upper and lower Michigan.

In Charlene's spare time, she enjoyed oil painting, woodworking, knitting, crocheting, sewing and quilting, and many other arts and crafts that she shared with her loved ones. She also loved recreational outdoor activities like cross country skiing, hunting and, most of all, nature walks which inspired her artistic talent.

Charlene was predeceased by her husband, Steve Vargovich Jr .; parents, Oliver and Genevieve Kahila; brother, Darrell Kahila; sister, Alice Kahila; nephew, Kasey Ozzello; sisters-in-law, Doreen Kahila and Debra (Vargovich) Harazin; brother-in-law, Dennis Vargovich; and in-laws, Marianne and Steve Vargovich Sr.

Surviving family include, her children, Michelle (Richard) Mathesius, Connie (Bob) Olmsted, Kevin Vargovich and Heather Grunert; sisters, Denise (Dale) Marten, Paula (Dan) Olson, Sheila Kahila, Sandra Kahila and Roxanne (Ernie) Cummings; brother-in-law, James (Carol) Vargovich; sister-in-law, Teena Vargovich; nine wonderful grandchildren, Joshua, Victoria, Axel, Austin, Larissa, Arionna, Tristen, Teija and Logan; and eight beautiful great-grandchildren, Brynn, Savannah, Sabrina, Nolan, Aria, Fiona, Adele and Oliver; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Charlene will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, sister and friend who had made our world a brighter place and will be sadly missed by all.

Upon Charlene's request, cremation has taken place and a private celebration of life will be held for family and close friends at a later date.