Charlene Louise Nelson (DeBaer), 82, of West Des Moines passed away early Friday, February 22, 2008, at Iowa Methodist Hospital.

She is survived by son, Mark Nelson and Therese of West Des Moines, IA; granddaughters, Amber Prickett (Nelson) and Scott, Cassandra Kite (Nelson) and Alex of Ames, IA; great-granddaughters Lily and Bianca Prickett of Wuakee, IA; brother, David DeBaer of Gatesville, TX; nieces, Posh DeBaer and son, Jace of Waukee, IA; Julie Bruce (Mike) and sons, Rusty and Nathaniel of West Des Moines, IA; Sukanya Soda and daughter Arina of West Des Moines.

Charlene is preceded in death by her parents, Victor and Wilhemina DeBaer of Lake Stevens, WA; and a brother, Richard DeBaer of Lake Stevens, WA.

Charlene was born March 25, 1925 in Everett, WA. She graduated from Everett High School in 1942. She then began nursing school at Providence Hospital School of Nursing where she graduated October 17, 1945. She practiced as a labor and delivery nurse for over 20 years in both Washington and Des Moines. Charlene enjoyed cooking, gardening, and playing bridge with her many friends at The Bridge House where she became a Life Master bridge player in 1998. She also enjoyed traveling and spending time with friends and family.

Visitation will be Monday, February 25, 2008, at 9:30 a.m. with Memorial Services to follow at 11 a.m. at St. Timothy's Episcopal Church, 1020 24th St., West Des Moines, IA. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Timothy's Episcopal Church.