Raised in Downey, passed away on September 22, 2007. Charlene was born on July 13, 1947 in Long Beach, California. She attended Our Lady of Perpetual Help Grammar School, Pius X High School, and Immaculate Heart College.

After graduating from college, Charlene was a Social Worker for the Department of Public Social Services, and then worked for over twenty years in computer software development and application.

For the past ten years, she was President of a telemedicine software company that made it possible for patients in rural areas to receive expert medical attention.

Charlene was active in her community, serving as a member of the Harbor City-Gateway Rotary Club and President of the Harbor City/Harbor Gateway Area Chamber of Commerce.

She was devoted to her family, generous with her time and resources, and forged long and loyal friendships with many people.

Charlene was preceded in death by her father, Ralph J. Apel. She is survived by her mother, Genevieve Apel; brothers, Ralph (Elaine), Dennis (Tensie), and Kenn (Lynda); sisters, Theresa (Russ), Catherine (Michael), and Veeve (Rod); 15 nieces and nephews; and 7 great nieces and great nephews.

Memorial services were held on Friday, September 28, 2007 at 5:00pm at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Downey. In lieu of flowers, Charlene requested that donations be made in her memory to The Hunger Project, 5 Union Square West, New York, New York 10003.

Published in Daily Breeze on Sept. 27, 2007