Charlene Castiglia Obituary

Charlene Marie (Swartzentruber) Castiglia from Turner, Michigan, passed away at the age of 75 on Friday, July 11, 2025, at Covenant Harrison ICU in Saginaw, Michigan.
Charlene was born on February 26, 1950 to Samuel and Betty (Kauffman) Swartzentruber in Midland, Michigan. She was one of five children. She graduated from Arenac Eastern High School in 1968 and attended Northeastern School of Commerce in Bay City, Michigan.
On August 14, 1971 Charlene married High School sweetheart, Joseph Castiglia and were married for 53 years. They lived in Turner, Michigan and had daughters Angela and Gina. She worked for Tawas St. Joseph Hospital Tawas Radiology as a medical biller. Along with this, she did Medical Sharing for Riverside Mennonite Church.
Charlene was an active member of Riverside with her vision of the church extending far beyond Sunday mornings. She has typed bulletins, planned and led all-age dramas, musicals, themed potlucks, and many special events, always gathering people together. Charlene and Joe were youth leaders for many years, attending youth rallies, planning camping trips, and using several activity books for creative and fun group games. Even in later years, she attended youth music events and youth camps, feeding all of the youth as well as running the annual Youth Harvest Dinner at Riverside. Her involvement in the Northern Michigan Relief Sale didn't end with the Pancake breakfast. She was known for her ideas, developing many areas, serving and involving all ages of people from a painting area for children to the Infamous Color Booth. She believed church was about building community, helping others, and bringing joy wherever she could. She showed what it meant to serve faithfully, fully, and joyfully, leaving a legacy of togetherness and service that will continue to ripple through Riverside and beyond.
Charlene had numerous activities. She was known for gathering, organizing, and encouraging everyone to assist along the way! With Joe in tow, they traveled with their own children, their grandchildren, the youth, and even "The Daisies." In recent years, they enjoyed gospel concerts and cruises with her brother and sister-in-law. She was the planner and gatherer of the family, often with a bag full of games and goodies, and always made everyone feel welcome. Retirement only encouraged her creative mind. Thus started the businesses, all beginning from an act of service. Assisting with the emptying of a storage unit and organizing a garage sale led to the purchase of other units and sales, eventually leading to "Sales at the Yard" with her sister, Sandy. The sisters' sales ministry assisted people with their houses and estate sales, with a little touch of counseling along the way. She often linked services and items for people in need. As someone who always loved weddings, she also started a wedding rental business in 2023. This business, titled "Just 4 U Wedding and Event Rental" is full and active on her Facebook Platform. Charlene has been ahead of her years in technology since the beginning of computers and utilized them within her work, her research of endless information gathering, creating digital photo books, and travel planning, The computer helped Charlene grow her network of people beyond the small town from which she came.
Charlene's grandchildren were very special to her. She attended and supported every activity they were involved in, always cheering them on as their biggest fan. Whether it was football, volleyball, or soccer games, she was there. She also showed up for band, jazz band, solo and ensemble performances, festival competitions, concerts, National Honor Society programs, and award ceremonies. Charlene's steady presence and support meant the world to her grandchildren, and she was so proud of each of them. Each grandchild had such a special connection with her that they each felt like they were the "favorite."
Charlene lived life to its absolute fullest. Every moment was a chance for her to laugh, spread joy, and have fun. Many have seen the annual Black Friday videos-Charlene singing with store employees, taking photos with shoppers, and showing her own family how to find complete joy in every moment. She "never knew a stranger" and always extended the love she gave her own family to everyone she met. She loved us, taught us, counseled us, and pulled us all together. Above all, Charlene was a true lover of life.
She is survived by her husband, Joseph Castiglia, two daughters, Angela (Chad) Anthony and Gina (Brian) Sanchez. Grandchildren: Morgan, Caden (Emily), Cameron, Siena, Hope, Regan, Selah, and Peyton; Also surviving are: Sister, Sandra (David) Moe; Brother, LaVon (Fonda) Swartzentruber; Brother, Kevin (Shawn) Swartzentruber; Brother-in-law, Ken (Sue) Swartz; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by Parents: Samuel and Betty Swartzentruber; Sister, Linda Swartz; Niece, Nicole Swartz; and Sister-in-Law, Kimberly Swartzentruber
Visitation will take place at Riverside Mennonite Church, Au Gres on Tuesday, July 15, 6:00-8:00 pm and Wednesday, July 16, 10:00-11:00 am. The Celebration of Life is 11:00 am on Wednesday, July 16, 2025 at Riverside Mennonite Church. Charlene will be laid to rest in the Sims-Whitney Cemetery.
Those wishing to express their love and support are encouraged to leave a message for her family at www.bureshfuneralhomes.com.
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