Charlene, formally of Veedersburg, Ind., passed away on Thursday, May 5, 2016, at 1:50 a.m. at Paris Health Care Center peacefully in her sleep after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer's. Born April 13, 1937, Charlene was the daughter of the late Donald Ray and Merval (Sprouls) Gannon of Georgetown.

She met the love of her life, John E. Schmit and the two were united in marriage on Dec. 21, 1957. They spent 53 loving years together until John's death on Nov. 10, 2010.

Charlene had a love for horses and she spent many weekends at local horse shows with her two children. Charlene retired from Southeast Fountain School District in 1998 where she spent many years at the elementary school as a cook. Charlene and John were known as "Winter Texans" traveling to Donna, Texas each fall. They spent their summer months in Deer River, Minn. fishing. Charlene was known for her infectious laugh and loved to spend time with her children and grandchildren as well as being outdoors mowing, planting flowers and gardening.

Charlene is survived by her two children, Jonna (Frank) Lowe, Ridge Farm, Jeff Schmit, Covington, Ind.; five grandchildren, Nick (Tia) Salts, Mercedes (Joshua Land) Schmit, Maverick Schmit, Drew Schmit and Isaiah Schmit; two step-grandchildren, Dixie (Bob) Morris and Randy Lowe; one great-grandchild, Matthew Land; six step-great-grandchildren, Tyler Lowe, Nicholas Speagle, Chet Speagle, Nolen Speagle, Gracie Morris and Joey Morris; and two brothers, Ronald (Bobbie) Gannon and Garry (Trish) Gannon.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and a granddaughter, Kristen Salts.

Per her wishes, Charlene was cremated. Memorial services will be Saturday May 14, at 2 p.m. at Pleasant Mound Church of Christ, west of Georgetown, Paul Kent will officiate.

Rortvedt Funeral Services and Crematory, of Tilton, is assisting family.