Charlene Joanne Schik, age 67, of Lafayette CO, passed away on Thursday, October 10, 2024 from ALS. She died very peacefully with her sisters by her side.
Charlene was born February 27, 1957, to Peter and Magdalene (Loerzel) Schik in St Paul, MN. She graduated from Derham Hall High School in 1975. She served two years in the National Guard.
She moved to Colorado in 1982 to live in a spiritual community, then later moved to Boulder where she worked at a group home and eventually went to massage school.
As a very gifted massage therapist for almost 30 years, Charlene lived a life devoted to helping others. She touched the lives of so many people who were deeply moved by her warmth, compassion, sensitivity, and healing touch.
Charlene leaves a legacy of beautiful relationships and the connections she created among her community of friends and family. Her life, her passion, and her focus was on relationships. Whether it was attending baby showers or birthday parties or listening to a friend or family member going through difficult times or visiting loved ones who were sick, Charlene always made people a priority. Even during her struggle with ALS, Charlene continued to reach out to friends in need of comfort. Countless friends and relatives called her their ‘Anam cara’, their soul friend.
Charlene was also silly, funny and whimsical. Her house was filled with countless unique and delightful items, for her amusement and entertainment. She never showed up at someone’s house without something fun or interesting to share.
It is difficult to describe the incredible vacuum left by her passing, but the testimony of people who loved her and were inspired by her speaks for her. What can say better who she was than how many want to live better and love better because of her example. She will always live in our hearts.
She is survived by her siblings Steven (Donna) Schik, Vincent (MeeAe Kim) Schik, Annette Gilbert, Joan Sloop, Susan Schik and Karen (Jim Martin) Schik, many nieces, nephews and cousins, and her two adored cats, Izze and Tashi. Charlene was preceded in death by her parents Magdalene and Peter Schik, brother-in-law David Sloop, nephew Eric Lofgren, and cherished cat Gracie.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday November 16 at 1:00 at Unity Columbine Spiritual Center, 8900 Arapahoe Road, Boulder, CO 80303. In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Wildlife Animal Sanctuary or Greenwood Wildlife Rehabilitation Center.
Dear Charlene, I have only met you once but that was so much love and kindness.it was joy when you were in Holland with Karen! I will always remember that as a gift!! Ich wünsche dich eine gute Reise nach das nächste leben und danke ❤️🤞🍀
Char was such a good friend and massage therapist. Her caring friendship warmed my soul. I am so grateful she came into my life and I will miss hearing dearly. She was such a devoted kitty Mom and Izze and Tashi brought her such joy. It gave her peace that they had long term homes after her passing. She sure loved her siblings, nieces and nephews and spoke of you all often. I am so sorry for your loss.
Kind, fun Charlene! I felt instant connection with you; your authenticity and integrity shone right along with your playful self. I didn’t know you well as we only met a few times through your sister, Karen, but you’ve left a mark, inspiration, warmth. The world is a better place because of you. Thank you. Zena
Charlene was a beautiful soul and such a wonderful and thoughtful massage mentor. Her laugh was contagious and she taught me a lot about caring for others well. She will be missed. Sending lots of love to all the sibs…she had so many fun stories about y’all!
I’m sorry for everyone’s loss. Her bodies presence will be missed but her spirit lives on in all of us. She was my massage therapist, counselor and friend for 15 years. We shared common beliefs and interests which made for an easy connection. She cared deeply for each person that lied on her table. She was very smart and funny. The way she lived her life so authentically was admirable to say the least. I’m/were so blessed to have known her. Sending love ❤️
Charlene was a warmth of sunshine to me, I knew when I stepped into her office I would be treated with a big smile and hug! She was someone I could openly talk to, and not only did she care about me, but she cared about my family! She helped me get thru my stressful job with her massage techniques she used. Charlene always talked of her Sisters and immediate family with great pride and love. She loved you all so much.
I will be forever grateful for her, and I’m not happy she is gone, but I know she lives in my heart! ❤️
Charlene was such a giver. She loved everyone so much. I am so grateful to have known her. Her kindness will always warm my heart and many others. And she will be terribly missed.