Charlene M. “Charlie” Esser, age 75, of Dubuque, IA, passed away peacefully at Harmony of Dubuque on January 19, 2026.  To honor Charlene’s life, a private family service will be held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Charlene’s family.

Charlene was born on November 19, 1950, to Pete and Pearl (Scholes) Driscoll in Dubuque, Iowa. On October 19, 1972, she married Ronald Esser. Together they raised two children and made their home in Potosi, Wisconsin, where Charlene became the heart of many lives.

Charlene was a natural-born caretaker. For many years, she ran an in-home daycare that became much more than a job—it became family. She loved her “kiddos” deeply, and they remained close to her throughout the years. Her gift for caring extended beyond her daycare; Charlene lovingly opened her home and her heart to those in need, including her father-in-law, Peter Esser, her mother, Pearl Driscoll, and her brother, LeRoy “Bubs” Driscoll during their illnesses. She ensured they received the very best care until their final days. Those years were filled with love, laughter, and a home that was always full of people and lasting memories. Charlene’s door—and heart—were always open to anyone who needed a place to belong.

In her younger years, Charlene enjoyed playing softball in a league in Tennyson, Wisconsin, and bowling with a wonderful group of friends on a ladies league at Sunset Lanes in Dickeyville, WI.   When she wasn’t caring for children or family, she bartended at several local establishments—where, by many accounts, she was one of the best around. Everyone loved “Charlie.” She was known for her warmth, quick wit, and for never turning down a shot of Sambuca with a chaser of Pepsi. She also loved shopping, attending concerts, and spending time with her friends.

Charlene leaves behind her children, Ronda Kennedy and Dane Esser, both of Cassville, Wisconsin; her sister, Susan Driscoll of Tennessee; her grandchildren, Taylor Kennedy, Thomas Kennedy, Colin Esser, and Tyson Timmerman; and her great-grandchildren, Letti Jensen and Daxtyn Kennedy, with another great-grandchild, Briggs Kennedy, expected soon; and a special longtime friend, Mike Link of Dubuque, Ia.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Pete and Pearl Driscoll; her brother, LeRoy “Bubs” Driscoll; her sister, Nancy (Del) Brecht; her daughter-in-law, Laura Esser; and her grandson, Dallas Esser.

I would like to send a VERY special thank you to Lois Denlinger, mom’s roommate at Harmony.  I am so thankful to have had you throughout this last week going through this with my mom.  Also, I would like to thank everyone at Harmony Care , so many of you were so good to my mom, especially Juilette.  Thank you to Hospice of Dubuque as well for taking great care of Mom through this process.  And finally, a heartfelt thank you to Sister Sharon Rezmer of Cathedral of St. Raphael for praying with mom all these years and being her friend.

Charlene will be remembered for her selfless heart, her unwavering care for others, and the love she gave so freely. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched and the family she held so close.

Dear lord, please guide my way along life’s road, it seems I trudge uphill.  I pray that others know your love, that I may do your will.  Please help me as I go about the task of daily livin’ and thank you for the many gifts that you’ve already given.  By: Velma Link

Online condolences for Charlene’s family may be left at www.tristatecremationcenter.com