Charlotte Ann Kocourek

Charlotte Ann Kocourek (Paulsen), age 89, of Plainfield, Illinois, was called to be with her Lord and Savior on October 28, 2025, at home while surrounded by her loving family.
Born on October 14, 1936, in Maquoketa, Iowa, Charlotte was the beloved only child of Theodore and Esther (Sunderman) Paulsen. As a young girl, she moved with her family to Manning, Iowa, where she graduated from Manning High School where her greatest joy was participating in the marching band. Her love of learning led her to Drake University, where she earned her degree in education in 1958 - beginning a lifelong calling to teach, nurture, and inspire others.
Charlotte dedicated over 25 years to teaching, most notably at Anne M. Jeans Elementary School in Willowbrook, Illinois. A passionate and gifted educator, she was honored with the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching, which honors outstanding teachers for their lasting, positive effects on students' lives and building stronger communities by ABC news- a recognition that reflected her boundless patience, compassion, and devotion to her students. Even in her later years, the simple sight of a school bus could bring tears to her eyes, a testament to how deeply she loved her vocation.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Ronald Kocourek, with whom she shared many joyful years. Together, they blended a wonderful family: Tim Kocourek, David Kocourek (Mary), Kevin Callanan, John Callanan, Jeffrey Kocourek, Susan Olson (Gary), and Robert Kocourek (Becky). Charlotte's heart overflowed with love and pride for her children
Her grandchildren were among her greatest blessings: Lee Kocourek (Casey), Christopher Kocourek, Jaclynn Bowers (Sam), Kyle Kocourek (Nicole), Ryan Kocourek, Stephanie Polich (Tyler), Emily Stankiewicz (Lukasz), Hannah Olson, Abby Olson, Ashley Kocourek, and Tyler Kocourek.
Charlotte's legacy continues through her great-grandchildren - Brayden, Leah, Cass, Charlie, Rory, Kole, Kamden, Kaden, Lucas, Bryson, and Kai.
An artist at heart, Charlotte filled her home with music and creativity. She played the piano, organ, clarinet, and even harmonica, and shared her voice in church choirs over the years. She also served faithfully as a church pianist. Her favorite hobby was oil painting and she spent many hours creating beautiful landscapes and portraits.
Throughout the years, Charlotte and Ron travelled extensively and enjoyed visiting and traveling with their many friends. Charlotte treasured her friendships, her family gatherings and every celebration of life's blessings.
Charlotte was preceded in death by her parents, beloved sons, Jeffrey and Kevin, her grandson, Christopher and her first husband, Jerome Callanan.
Though her earthly journey has ended, we rejoice knowing she is now at peace in her eternal home - welcomed by her loved ones and embraced by Jesus.
"Well done, good and faithful servant enter into the joy of your Lord."
- Matthew 25:23
For those who would like to leave a lasting tribute to Charlotte's life, memorial donations may be directed to:
HCS Family Services, 22 N. Elm St. Hinsdale, IL 60521. Telephone 630-884-9117 or visit: HCSfamilyservices.org
A memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, November 8, 10:00 AM until 12:00 Noon at the Overman-Jones Funeral Home & Cremation Services, corner of Routes 30 & 59, Plainfield. A celebration of Charlotte's life will follow at 12:00 Noon at the funeral home. Private family inurnment will be at Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Hillside, IL.