Charlotte Jean Luke, born on June 17, 1934, in Des Moines, Iowa, to John O. and Etta D. Luke, passed away peacefully on August 27, 2025, at the MercyOne West Des Moines Medical Center.
Raised in Waukee, Charlotte graduated from Waukee High School in 1951. She enjoyed a fulfilling career as a Secretary and Office Manager until her retirement in 1997, during which she demonstrated exemplary dedication, organization and professionalism.
An avid quilter and reader in her younger years, Charlotte cultivated a remarkable collection of over 1,000 books, cherishing the joy of literature and sharing her passion with others. In addition to her literary pursuits, she found great enjoyment in watching football, passionately supporting both the Iowa State Cyclones and the Iowa Hawkeyes. Even in her later years, she held a steadfast belief in the value of print media, regularly reading the Des Moines Register with devotion.
Charlotte shared a special bond with her brother, George Luke, expressing deep appreciation for everything he did for her over the years. She cherished her family ties and will be lovingly remembered by those who have had the privilege to know her. Charlotte is predeceased by her parents, her uncle Clarence Luke, her aunts Jennie Luke and Clara Davis, and her sister-in-law Suzanne Luke.
At Charlotte's request, no funeral or visitation will be held. She will be interred at the Waukee Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made in Charlotte's memory to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by her family and friends.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
80 NE Dartmoor Drive, Waukee, IA 50263
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreYou may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read moreThese free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read moreSome basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more