Charlene Faye Meistrell

Charlene Faye Meistrell, age 102, of Plainville, Kansas, passed away peacefully on January 11, 2026, at the Rooks County Health Center in Plainville, in the community she called home her entire life.

She was born on March 3, 1923, in Plainville to Albert and Charlotte (Stein) Mock and graduated from Plainville High School in 1941. On December 29, 1941, she married Donald E. Meistrell in Wichita, Kansas. They shared 65 years of marriage and were blessed with one son, Robert. Don preceded her in death in 2006.

From an early age, Charlene had a gift for creating and caring for things. She began knitting at just 14 years old, a skill that became a lifelong passion. Over the years, she lovingly taught hundreds of people how to knit, sharing not only her talent but her patience and kindness. Her nurturing spirit extended to her garden as well—Charlene had a remarkable “green thumb” and was known for being able to save even the most struggling plant.

During World War II, Charlene worked at Beech in Wichita while Don was in the service. In 1955, she and Don founded and owned Plainville Bowl, eventually running it until 1969. She later owned Busy Bee dress shop from 1967 until it closed in 1985, where many remember her friendly smile and welcoming presence.

Charlene found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She faithfully watched the Lawrence Welk Show, enjoyed many games of bridge with friends, and took pride in her flowers and yard. She was a longtime member of the First Christian Church in Plainville, where her faith and quiet devotion were important parts of her life.

Charlene is survived by her son, Robert “Bob” (Nikki) Meistrell of Plainville; her sister, Judy Armstrong of Los Angeles, CA; sister-in-law, Madge Mock of Tucson, AZ; two grandchildren, Jaime (Jon) Corbett and Robin Meistrell; and four great-grandchildren, Christian Chard, Lili Ward, Warrick Baldwin, and Tyler Corbett.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Don; brothers, Tom, Norman (Dixie), and Jack (Betty) Mock; sister, Bernice (Les) Matson; brother-in-law, Frank Armstrong; and grandson, Tyler Ward.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, January 16, 2026, at 10:30AM at the First Christian Church in Plainville. Visitation will be Thursday 5-8PM at the funeral home in Plainville.

Memorials are suggested to First Christian Church, Redbud Village, or Rooks County Health Center and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd St, Plainville, KS 67663.