Charlotte Harksen, 77, of Denton, Texas, (formerly of Dixon), passed away on Nov. 24, 2025, after a long and courageous health battle. Born on Jan. 27, 1948, in Davenport to Henry and Ardelle Kraft (Arp), Charlotte brought warmth, wit, and a whole lot of heart to everyone lucky enough to know her.
A devoted mother and homemaker for much of her life, Charlotte later worked at Dillard’s, where she shared her signature charm and easy conversation with coworkers and customers alike. She had a gift for making people feel seen and heard — especially over a good phone call.
Charlotte was a lifelong sports fan, always ready to cheer on her favorite teams, and found her greatest joy in the laughter and energy of her great-grandson, Jaxon. Her love for her family was unwavering, and her presence will be deeply missed.
She is survived by her son, Matthew Harksen of Iowa City; daughter, Jennifer Wright (Ron) of Denton; three loving grandchildren — Olivia, McKenzie, and Brendan (Tommie) — and her beloved great-grandson, Jaxon. She also leaves behind her sisters Wendy Kraft, Joni Grove, Dianne Harrington, and brother Kent Kraft (Kathe). Charlotte was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Ardelle Kraft, and her sister, Susan Zimpleman.
Her legacy lives on in the stories we tell, the games we watch, and the love we carry forward.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, in honor of Charlotte’s strength and spirit.
A celebration of life will be held at a future date to be decided.
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