Mary Charlotte Schwartzhoff (nee Baxter), of West Allis, WI, formerly of Waukon, Iowa, entered Eternal Life on February 3, 2014, at the age of 92.
Beloved mother of Gail (Bill) Rozga, Gregory (Michele) Schwartzhoff, Donald (Margaret) Schwartzhoff, and son-in-law, Joseph Kaiser. Dear grandmother of Dawn (Sherri), Daniel (Becky), David, Sara (Jonathan), Corrie, Anna, James (Amy), John (Rebecca), Heather (David), Matthew, Jennifer (Blake), and Justin. Proud great-grandmother of Emma, Sophie, Rose, Ella, Vivian, Evalynn, Megan, Zoe, Roshni, Ronin, Chloe, Marissa, Kyle, Molly, and Luke. Cherished sister of Dorothy Keefe. Preceded in death by her parents; husband Gregg (2006); son Dale (1944); daughter Carol Kaiser (2012); sister Helen Wiltgen; and brothers Kenneth, Charles, Jack, Oliver and Donald Baxter. Further survived by relatives and friends.
"Charlotte" was born to Francis and Winifred (Regan) Baxter on April 25, 1921, in Waukon, Iowa, where she completed schooling at St. Patrick's and Waukon High School. On October 18, 1941, Charlotte married Gregory Thomas Schwartzhoff at St. Agnes Church in Chicago. In 1950, they moved to Milwaukee, WI, where they settled to raise their family and run their heating business.
Charlotte will be remembered as a generous, caring person who was the heart of her family. The deep love she had for her family poured into her everyday actions. Charlotte's "hands were always helping, her arms always open, her ears ready to listen." She was slow to judge, quick to smile and speak kind words. Charlotte's faith saw her through life's joys and difficulties.
During their 65 years of married life, Charlotte and Gregg opened their home to many family members and friends, always sharing what they had. Charlotte was a wonderful hostess, providing countless home-cooked feasts and cozy accommodations.
Charlotte's steadfast faith and unconditional love are part of the legacy Charlotte leaves her loved ones. May her gentle spirit continue to inspire and guide our lives.
Charlotte will be going home to Iowa to be buried among many family members at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Mass to celebrate her life will be held Monday, February 10, at 10:30 am at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Waukon with Fr. Jim Dubert and Deacon Mike Ward officiating. Family and friends may call from 9:30 AM until the time of service Monday at the church. Martin Funeral Home in Waukon is assisting with arrangements.