Linda (Besel) Charlton
East Wenatchee, Washington
February 20, 2008

Linda (Besel) Charlton, 63, passed away peacefully in her home, February 20, 2008, after a 17-month battle with cancer. Linda was born October 4, 1944, to Simon "Sim" and Clarice "Cassie" Besel in Brownwood, TX. She was raised in Waterville, WA and enjoyed a happy childhood with her younger sister, Suzanne, where the two spent many special times with cousins, friends and extended family. Linda graduated from Waterville High School in 1963.

On September 23, 1967, she married her long time sweetheart, Jack Charlton, in Waterville. Their friendship and marriage flourished for over 50 years. Jack and Linda moved to Pullman, where their first child, Matt, was born December 22, 1969. After moving back to the Wenatchee Valley, their daughter, Erin, was born on October 3, 1972. Linda was a selfless mother who dedicated her life to her children and their well being. She was truly happiest when all of her family was together.

Linda re-entered the workplace in the early 80's, eventually pursuing a career in the medical records field. She retired in 1998 to pursue a new interest - spending time with her five grandsons. Besides the fulfilling times she was able to spend with her grandchildren and family, Linda enjoyed RV trips with Jack, hiking with friends and spending time near ocean beaches. She took great pleasure in building relationships with those she loved and her caring nature and loving personality endeared her to others, while her strong Christian beliefs remained constant in her life.

Linda is survived by her loving husband, Jack Charlton of East Wenatchee; her mother, Cassie Besel of Wenatchee; her son, Matt and daughter-in-law, Shelley, Charlton of Manson; her daughter, Erin and son-in-law, Shane, Cass of Wenatchee; her five grandsons Bowen, Benjamin, Tyler, Sim and Connor; her brother-in-law Doug Carter of Kirkland; and her nieces Ashley and Alison Carter of Seattle. She was fortunate to have many relatives and close friends in her life. Linda was preceded in death by her father, Sim; and sister, Suzanne. A memorial service will be held at the First United Methodist Church on February 26, 2008, at 11:00 a.m. The service will be lead by Rev. Kel Groseclose. A reception at the church will follow the service. Friends and family, who wish, may make memorial donations in Linda's name to: CWH Hospice, 903 Red Apple Road, Wenatchee, WA 98801.