Charlene Margaret (nee McCloud) Neubauer, of Ottawa, died Wednesday night, November 4th, 2026 surrounded by her loving family.
Funeral services will be private at the Mueller Funeral Home in Ottawa with Rev. Seamus Enright, officiating. A private burial will follow at Oakwood Memorial Park in Ottawa.
Mrs. Neubauer was born on August 9, 1937 in Joliet, IL to Leonard and Esther (Henker) McCloud. She married Donald Neubauer on October 12, 1958 at the McDowell Methodist Church. She was a proud graduate of Saunemin High School. She dedicated many years to the community as head of school food services at Ottawa School District 141.
She is survived by two sons: Roger Neubauer (Julie Atkins) of Fountain Hills, AZ and Gary Neubauer (Kathy Jakubek) of Ottawa; seven grandchildren, Leah (Donal) Neubauer-O’Sullivan, Maria (David) Trainor, Ryan (Tonya Kucybala) Neubauer, Rachel Neubauer, Adam (Katie) Neubauer, Jennifer (Dusan) Kukolj, and Raeanna Neubauer; eight great-grandchildren, Eva, John, Noah, Elaina, Caiden, Rose, Nate, and Teo.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Donald, youngest son Glenn, and her mother and father.
Charlene was exceptionally gifted in all things handmade. She was an award-winning baker, securing ribbons annually at the Sandwich Fair. She was known locally for her beautiful cake decorating, cookies and cheesecakes. She was an incredible needleworker and crafter. She excelled at bowling, markswomanship, playing cards, and she was a voracious reader and cross-worder.
Charlene loved adventure, whether it was Minnesota fishing trips with her boys, cross-country road trips with her grandchildren, or joining her husband on motorcycle rides across the USA and Canada.
She cherished opportunities to visit, gather around a meal and make memories. Whether it was meeting her friends for morning coffee at a local restaurant or enjoying family meals.
Charlene’s greatest joy in life was her family. She loved them dearly and never passed up an opportunity to enjoy one another’s company. You would find her in the bleachers cheering on basketball, volleyball and rodeo events. Her years as “Grandma” and “Great-Grandma” were her greatest blessing and the memories shared meant the world to her.
Charlene had a special place in her heart for animals and was devoted to their well-being. She always made sure they were cared for, nurtured and loved.
The family extends their heartfelt appreciation to the Pavillion of Ottawa and Transitions Hospice Care for the compassionate care and support they provided to Charlene.
In honor of Mrs. Neubauer, you are invited to donate to the Pet Project Inc in Marseilles, IL or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, TN.
You may sign the online guestbook and share remembrances at www.MuellerFH.com. Mueller Funeral Home and Crematory 800 First Avenue, Ottawa, IL 61350 815-434-4433.