KENSETT — Waldren “Wally” Herbert Charlson, 87, of Kensett, died peacefully September 1, 2026, at Apple Valley Care Center in Clear Lake.
A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, September 8, at Bethany Lutheran Church, 600 5th St., Kensett, with Pastor Linda Johnson Prestholt officiating. Visitation will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. at the church before the service. Wally’s final resting place will be Kensett Cemetery.
Wally was born November 1, 1938, in Forest City, the son of Herbert and Alice (Brunsvold) Charlson. He attended rural schools in the Kensett area and graduated with the class of 1957.
On June 20, 1959, he married Marlys Anderson. Their marriage grew into a life built around three children, their family, faith, farming and the North Iowa community they called home.
Farming remained at the center of Wally’s life. A lifelong farmer, he took pride in the work, traditions and way of life that came with agriculture. His family remembers a man who could show his affection with a little teasing and whose grandchildren frequently found themselves on the receiving end of his good-natured humor.
Tractors held a special place in Wally’s heart. He collected Farmall toy tractors, enjoyed tractor rides and was happy to lend a hand when his family was involved with the Worth County Fair.
Family gatherings were among the occasions he treasured most. Christmas brought another tradition that became especially memorable for those around him: Wally enjoyed playing Santa Claus and bringing smiles to children and grandchildren.
His family remembers him as kind-spirited and caring, a man who did not always need many words to let people know they mattered. He showed that devotion through the time he gave, the help he offered and the traditions he kept alive.
Wally is survived by his wife, Marlys; children Daniel (Shawn) Charlson, Carole (Craig) Voss and Timothy (Tammy) Charlson; grandchildren Donika Charlson, Jacob (Tammy) Charlson, Jesse (Whitney) Voss, Travis Charlson and Tianna Charlson; great-grandchildren Lyle and Tyler Voss; sister Sandra (Richard) Phillips; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Alice Charlson; brothers Dennis and David; and infant sister Shirley.
Conner Colonial Chapel in Northwood is caring for Wally’s family. For complete obituary information and condolences, please click here.
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