Charlene "Char" Neveln Burns

Charlene (Char) was born to the late Edward and Bertha (Marts) Neveln, on August 1, 1933, in Des Moines. A lifelong resident of Ankeny, she graduated from Ankeny High School in 1951, at a time when her father was the superintendent of schools and the town had less than 5000 residents. Char attended Iowa State University, and in 1952, met and married Charles (Roger) Burns, to whom she enjoyed 62 years of marriage.

Char was an early member of the First United Methodist Church of Ankeny and over the years particularly enjoyed Bridge Clubs and her time with lifelong friends as a member of the Ankeny Town and Country Women’s Club.

An avid reader throughout her life with one of the most impressive minds for all things sports; Char was first and foremost a mother. Always caring and present to listen and support; she lived her life with grace and love for those around her.

Char was preceded in death by her husband Roger; parents Ed and Bertha; and sister; Joanne. Char is survived by her children Melinda of St Louis Park, MN (David); Brian (Denise) of Tempe; AZ; Cathy (and the late Gary Anderson) of Story City; and Michelle (Ray) of Seattle WA. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren Derek; Michael; Alex; Dalton; Kaija; Mason and great granddaughter Lily. On behalf of Char’s children we are grateful for the love and care mom received from our sister Cathy; friends Phyllis, Marcia, and Joyce and countless others; as well as the staff at Wesley Life Hospice.

Services will be held Saturday, March 14, 2015, at 4pm at Ankeny Funeral Home 1510 West First Street, Ankeny, IA. The family will be receiving guests after the services.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations for Seedsforautism.org. (1345 W McKinley St, Phoenix, AZ, 85007), or Wesley Life Hospice.