Charleen Rae Little

Charleen Rae Little (Sherfey), a beacon of love and friendship, left this world as she lived in it - embraced by warmth and affection - on November 6, 2025, with her family in the tranquil surroundings of Kailua, Hawaii. Born on October 17, 1949, in Hanover, Pennsylvania, Charleen's journey was one of passion, dedication, and an enduring love for her family and friends.
Charleen's life was marked by her unwavering commitment to her family, which stood as the cornerstone of her world. She is survived by her adoring son, Bill Atwater, her cherished daughter-in-law, Roxanne, and her beloved grandsons, Tyler, and Tristan and three nieces and two nephews. The sparkle in her eye, however, was her great-granddaughter, Isla, who will carry the legacy of Charleen's kindness and warmth into the future. While Charleen was predeceased by her parents, John and LaRue Sherfey, and her siblings, Bobby Sherfey, Susan Smith (Sherfey), and Carla Riedel (Sherfey), the values they instilled in her shone brightly throughout her life.
Professionally, Charleen excelled in the field of Supply Chain Management, having earned multiple certifications and contributing significantly to Minnesota Cummins Power Generation from 1984 to 2009. As a Parts Manager, she was more than just an employee; she was a trailblazer. Her colleagues remember her not just for her professional prowess but for her ability to foster a workplace environment that felt more like a community than a mere place of employment.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Charleen was a woman of diverse interests, with an especial love for her family and dogs. Her home was a sanctuary of joy, laughter, and unconditional love, where all were welcome, and everyone left feeling better for having been there.
In the tapestry of Charleen's life, the threads of love, thoughtfulness, and friendliness were woven together to create a masterpiece of human kindness. Her life's story serves as a motivational narrative that encourages us all to live with compassion, to embrace our loved ones, and to make a positive impact in the lives of others.
As we remember Charleen Rae Little, let us honor her memory by embodying the virtues she lived by: love deeply, act kindly, and spread joy wherever you go. Her legacy is a reminder that life's truest success lies not in our material achievements but in the hearts we touch and the love we leave behind. May her soul rest in eternal peace, and may her spirit continue to guide and inspire us every day.