Charley Sophia Falkena

Charley Sophia graced our world with perseverance and passion on December 21, 2004. Her big blue eyes had the brightest sparkle and her smile was contagious. Right along with that smile came some ferociously strong lungs. If you have not heard the infamous story of her sister, Chloe, asking Robin, "When is that girl's Mom coming to pick her up?" then you are missing out. Charley's perseverance and advocacy skills saved her life when she was just months old. Charley taught the world what it takes to be a warrior when she underwent surgery for a heart transplant at 7 months old. Charley had 14 more years to teach our world lessons thanks to her angel, Anna. Anna courageously donated her organs and Charley made it no secret that she was *stoked* to meet Anna.
The Queen of one liners is another title that Charley earned at a young age. "How could you do this to a child?" and "You want to slam doors?" are some of her most remembered. Charley's stuffed animal collection started early as well…. Resulting in a good family laugh when they found bags upon bags in the storage unit while moving. The Shelby County Sheriff's Office handed out tons of hand me down stuffed animals that Charley donated for kids who needed a pick me up when they came into contact with the Deputies for whatever reason. Oh, and who could forget the toddler that requested crab rangoon and fried rice. They know her order by heart at the one and only Great Wall. Just ask Cain, Charley was sure to let you know it wasn't from the "original" if he tried to sneak some in from the 84th street location.
Charley enjoyed pulling all nighters and watching princess movies (good thing her Dad worked over nights and could "hang" with the night owl). This always did result in her being a bear to wake up the next morning though. If you tried to tell her no… or anything she didn't want to hear, she could turn on the water works at the drop of the hat. Charley loved to be with her friends… spending hours drawing, making up skits, costume changes, singing, dancing and playing games. Her passion for dancing and that big contagious smile could not even be slowed by an IV pole. From Marvin to Lilo, Charley made a stage out of every situation she was ever in… including hospital rooms. Her caring heart was always thinking of others. Any time Charley had to have a blood draw she would apologize to the nurses and warned them before every procedure that she would either be waking up really nice or really mean.
With Charley there was never an area of gray she wore her heart on her sleeve and was honest to a fault. Her parents had to implement the five second rule… teaching Charley that she had to think for five seconds before saying anything. Charley loved animals… her most beloved feline is Flash (who was frequently found sneaking in for some cuddles after treatments), but have no doubt… she raised Milo and Oreo.. the neighborhood stray cats in their outside shed. It should be noted that although Flash is old, she can chase a laser like a kitten. Just ask Logan, he would wake Charley up by shining a laser when he came home late and flash was sure to make a scene.
Soccer was Charley's one true love and she really liked Cross Country… well, except for all the running. Charley enjoyed her last season following along in the golf cart…cheering everyone on. Speaking of cheering, you might see some signs that say We love you Chuck. In true sisterly fashion, Chloe gave Charley some nicknames and Charley Chuck has really stuck around… much to Robins demise.
In the summers Char enjoyed traveling and camping at National Parks, including Yellowstone, Devils Tower and The Bad Lands. She particularly enjoyed Montana, Washington, Maui and the Big Island where she quickly added the skill of surfing to her many talents.
Sunsets, bonfires, and car rides. Some of Charley's most recent favorite things. Yes, that's right… she loved car rides… even though she was known for her "car-celepsy". When she wasn't sleeping in the car, she was learning to drive them. It's true, she was in the big red truck. Charley talked often about her zoo trip with friends and anyone who knows Charley, knows that when you had sent a message and her bubbles popped up for a response… you knew it was going to be good! She hated drama, especially teenage drama so she was sure to release her savage ways. The pride she wore in her Vikings cheerleading outfit was brighter than those Friday Night Lights and that light will continue to shine forever.
Charley was active in student council and in her application she included three reasons as to why she would be excellent for the role. Charley is so strong that her legacy will forever live on for these exact reasons. Charley knew she had a gift to share with the world, and that gift didn't stop with her classmates. {From Charley} First {"I am a strong leader."} Charley knew she would help and encourage others. Second, {"I want to help bring good things to our class."} Charley knew she had the gift to encourage an entire community. Just like those bright Friday Night Lights, Charley's spirit will shine bright until the end of time. Third, {"I don't want to play around with this and bribe you with silly things."} Charley knew she would change the world one person at a time. Charley isn't just beautiful because of her appearance. She is beautiful because of the way she chose to live and love. She embraced all of life's experiences and though she would bend, she never broke. Charley chose to create her own sunshine. Like a pearl, made from grit, but full of grace.
Family living on to honor Charley's memory include her parents Robin (Chad) Butler of Harlan, IA; Geoffrey Falkena of Lusk, WY; siblings Cain Francois, Logan Butler, Chloe Falkena; grandparents Mary Roskens, Nancy Falkena, Jerry Falkena, Tom & Diane Butler; Aunts & Uncles Tim & Mary Beth Roskens, Tom & Carrie Roskens, Bart & Emily Falkena, Jared Falkena, Halley Falkena, Brad Butler, Mike Butler, Tim & Kristi Pederson; special family friends Bri, Mallie, & Ethan; other family members and many friends. She will be welcomed into heaven by her loving Grandpa Gary Roskens.
Social Distancing Standards will be observed during services.