Charlotte L. McClaren, age 83, of Custer, SD passed away on Wednesday, June 9, 2010 after a lengthy illness.

Charlotte was born on January 10, 1927 to John and Mabel Lauritsen in Lead, SD. She graduated from Custer High School in 1945. On November 21, 1953 she married Robert M. McClaren.

Bob and Charlotte lived and worked in many places, including Nevada, Utah, Arizona, Wyoming, Chicago, Illinois and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. After Bob retired from Mine Safety and Health Administration they returned back to the Custer area.

Charlotte loved to travel. She flew the Concorde to Paris, France, traveled to Hawaii and Switzerland, and took an Alaskan cruise, always traveling with her dear friends.

Thanks to her travels, Charlotte met and enjoyed many friends from all around the country. From an early age she loved raising and caring for dogs, all of whom were loyal and obedient companions to her.

Charlotte was preceded in death by her parents, John and Mabel Lauritsen and her husband Robert M. McClaren.

She is survived by her step-son, Robert W. McClaren of Pringle; her grandson, Ryne McClaren of Chadron, NE, cousins, and her many adoring friends.

Services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, June 15, 2010 at the First Baptist Church in Custer with Pastor Bill Savery officiating. Burial will follow at the Custer Cemetery.

A memorial has been established in Charlotte's name to benefit the Humane Society of the Black Hills. Contributions can be sent c/o Robert McClaren, PO Box 8, Pringle, SD 57773.

Arrangements have been placed in the care of McColley's Chapel of the Hills in Custer. Written condolences can be made at www.mccolleyschapels.com.