Charlene

[Flintgreasewood]

Some of you miners who have been with the Alaska Gold Forum from the early days remember “Charlene” a Fairbanks miner, mechanic and trommel builder. Several years ago Charlene was involved in a horrific vehicle accident that put her in hospitals for a year and a half. Her spinal injury left her effectively a quadriplegic. Whenever I visited with her we would talk of mining and her hopes of someday being able to operate an excavator again. Understandably she experienced bouts of depression but she hung in there.
Yesterday when I stopped in for a visit I discovered her room empty and thought she may have taken a trip “outside”. I enquired at the desk of the Denali Center and was given the sad news that Charlene had died a few days previous. As sad as her passing is, the mental and physical suffering she endured for so long is ended.
We’ll miss you Charlene

[Geowizard]

Kurt,

I am profoundly saddened to hear this news about Charlene. I had many discussions with Charlene on trommel building. She will long be remembered for her personal courage and ambition.

RIP Charlene.

- Geowizard

[Jim_Alaska]

Sad news indeed. I have often wondered what became of her. I had no idea of the accident she was in. She was always a bright spot on the old forums and will be missed by the mining community.

[Joe S (AK)]

Charlene was a true one of a kind. I knew about some of her various accomplishments as well as her mental toughness from the forum long ago. A strong soul on a long, uphill journey.

Sorry to hear the news after just not hearing anything for so long.

Joe

[chickenminer]

I too wondered why we stopped hearing from her. She was a character alright.
Glad she has found peace.

[Au_Seeker]

Very sorry to hear of this, sad to say the least, I enjoyed reading of her venture and inventiveness, may she rest in peace.