Charlene Riel

Charlene Riel, 76, of Waupun, passed away unexpectedly at home on April 15, 2023.

Charlene was born March 20, 1947 in Beaver Dam, the daughter of Glenn and Marjorie Toll Vande Zande. She was a graduate of Waupun High School in 1965. On April 5, 1968 she married Walter “Wally” Riel Jr. at Trinity Reformed Church in Waupun. Charlene began her work career in 1965 with Optometrists, Dr. Newton Lenz and Dr. Dean Lenz, and then Dr. Angela Olson (Olson Eye Care). Her career lasted for over 57 years. She loved her work so much that it continued until her passing. Nearly every Friday and Saturday she did a breakfast and shopping outing with her dear friend, Marsha Leberak on Fridays and with her cousin, Clarice Rabe on Saturdays. Charlene was a member of Edgewood Community Church. She also enjoyed being a member of Women’s Aglow Fellowship for 40 years and served as an officer for many of those years. Charlene’s faith in Jesus Christ was exemplified by the way she lived each day and she was a faithful prayer warrior during her daily devotions.

Charlene is survived by her husband of 55 years, Wally; their son, Matthew (Rachael) Riel; their daughter, Brinley; brother, Bruce (Valerie) Vande Zande and their children: Shawon and Ashley; sister-in-law, Geri (Lee) Preuss and her children, Vince (Tracy) Schultz and their daughter, Alaine (Colin) Birschbach, and Keetra (Chris) Baker.

Charlene was preceded in death by an infant brother; her parents; and in-laws.

Funeral services for Charlene Riel will be held Friday, April 21, 2023 at 5 p.m. at Edgewood Community Church in Waupun with Pastor Calvin Vande Zande officiating. Private burial to  take place on Saturday. Friends and relatives may call on the family on Friday at the church from 2 p.m. until the time of service.