Charlotte Brand

Charlotte Brand, after waging an extended battle with cancer, passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home on the morning of June 28, 2018.

Charlotte was born December 10, 1942, to Reinard and Barbara Jansen, and resided in Bellingham. A highlight from her childhood were family trips to her grandparents’ farm, a rite of passage enjoyed years later by her own children. Charlotte was a proud Red Raider, graduating from Bellingham High School with the class of 1960, in her mind, the best of the best; and to this day more than one hundred classmates gather annually to swap lies about those special times. After a crimson and gray year at WAZZU, Charlotte completed her education earning Bachelor and Masters degrees at Western Washington University. A long, successful and rewarding teaching and administrative career followed, culminating with school principalships at Larrabee and Sunnyland elementary schools. Upon retirement from the Bellingham School District, the final chapter of Charlotte’s educational career was written at WWU, where she taught elementary education students, including a stint as director of a Post Baac. program that provided qualifying students an alternative route to teacher certification. Charlotte enjoyed working outside in the large yard, where her green thumb skills were continually put to the test, yet always rewarded with a panorama of flowers and colors.  Other favorite activities were book club, golf league, travel and card playing (especially blackjack).  Charlotte’s greatest love was her family and the adventures of the children and grandchildren kept her active and her memory bank full. 

Charlotte is survived by her beloved husband, Rob; daughter Nicole Talley (Brynn, Kodie, Grace) son Michael Owens (Michael, Mia), son John Owens; stepchildren Greg Brand (Carly) and Linda Roy (Teddy, William) and her sister-in-law, Chandra Jansen. 

A celebration of life will be held for Charlotte at a later date. Lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations be made to a charity of choice. A memorial message may be left by visiting Sig’s Funeral Services website.