A true child of the Pacific Northwest, Charlene was born in Portland, Oregon. She was the second oldest child born to Charles and Frances Dolores Brasesco. Her other four siblings were Babe, Sonny, Margie, and Jim making up the Brasesco clan. Being from a large family, there was never a dull moment in the Brasesco home. Growing up in Oregon the family enjoyed many outdoor activities together. This cultivated Charlene’s love of mountains as well and the ocean scenic beauty.
In her teen years, Charlene attended Franklin high school where she was active with school gathering and activities. She also worked at the local Dairy Queen, where her sparkling eyes and bright smile caught the attention of young Leon Hoffard. After a budding romance, they fell and love and were married. They soon started a family. Charlene was a very proud mom providing her family with a safe and stable home life. Leon and Charlene had a total of 6 children together, Julie, Lee, Chuck, Kathy, John and Francie who were the joys of her life. All together she has a total of 9 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren who were dear to her heart.
In her older years, Charlene worked a side job to stay active within the community. The family called her the “demo queen” because she loved doing demonstrations at the different department stores around the city. Charlene also loved to gamble. She enjoyed playing poker with her family and friends and often hosted bunco at her home. She also loved gambling at the casinos too. Reno was one of her favorite destination spots to visit. Her luck was amazing!
Charlene was also an adventurer and loved to travel. She often cruised to many different spots around the globe with family and friends. She was the past president of the Portland Fine Art Guild where she had the chance to use and display her talents in oil painting. Her ocean scenes were one of her pride and joys. She was a gifted artist.
On a second time around, Charlene remarried Gerald Thomas and moved to Newport, Oregon where she spent the remaining years of her life. She enjoyed all her children coming to visit her at the beach. She loved the 4th of July especially. There are many fond memories of family and friends barbecuing oysters, scallops, and crabs, and 20-30 of us camping in the back yard. We always had really good times at moms.
As the years progressed, Charlene suffered from multiple failing health issues that would be hard for anyone to endure in their lifetime. She was a very strong woman and fought with all her might to the very end. She will always be remembered for the kindness and love she showed to everyone. She will forever be missed and loved by her family and friends.
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