Charlotte (Chuck) Mae Tatro, age 76 passed away at her home surrounded by family on Thursday, February 2, 2023 after a short (but long) battle with pancreatic cancer.
Chuck was born the second of three children on July 18, 1946 in the Springer Hospital in Hettinger, ND to Earl and Virginia (Olson) Meisner. Chuck attended Hettinger High School and it was during her 8th grade year she started dating the love of her life, Harry (Skip) Tatro. They were married on August 16th, 1964, three months after graduating high school. From this marriage two children were born, Michael John in 1966 and Teryl Lyn in 1969. Skip and Chuck chose to raise their family in Hettinger, which allowed their kids to form special bonds with grandparents and other family members. Chuck worked at various jobs including Adams County Social Services, ACS, West River Regional Medical Center and Hettinger Radiology. In 1994 Chuck and Skip moved to Mandan, ND where she worked at Med Center One and then APS. In 2018 they moved to Forsyth MT to enjoy time with Teryl and Wade. Many special and lasting friendships were made at each place she worked and lived.
Mom didn’t have typical hobbies but rather “many loves”. She loved wandering through little gift shops searching for that unique item no one else seemed to ever find and she usually had her favorite drink (another love) in hand…..coffee. If you put her on a mission to find something, whether on-line or by foot, she would find it! She even found a riding lawn mower for Teryl and Wade! Mom was an amazing cook–her gravy of any kind, was absolutely the best, along with fried chicken, chicken fried steak, salmon patties, creamed corn from scratch and potato salad, just to name a few. No matter the time of day mom always had a hot meal ready for Dad when he came through town with a load of sheep or cattle. And baking!!! Mom was famous for her cookies! Chocolate chip, date filled, spritz…you name it and they were the absolute best any one would ever eat. They were often shared with friends, family and neighbors!
Mom also had a great love for music (particularly Elvis) and dancing. Pansies and peonies were among her favorite flowers, however, she had to plant petunias for Teryl because those were the only ones Teryl could keep alive! Mom had impeccable style, her shirts and slacks were always ironed PERFECTLY and she always had coordinating jewelry (another of her “loves”) to match. Mom’s compassionate heart for family and friends was frequently expressed through a card. She rarely missed an occasion and she seemed to be very intuitive when someone needed a word of encouragement or just a “hello” card. Mom also loved animals, with the exception of birds. From birth there was always a cat or dog or two and later in marriage she and Skip had two beloved Shitzues, Sasha and Ginger. We were all greatly blessed by Mom’s giving heart and will dearly miss her quick wit and the humor she brought to every conversation.
Chuck is survived by her loving husband of 59 years, Skip; son Mike (special friend Annette Hendricks) and grandson Max; daughter Teryl (Wade Cole); two very special adopted families: Tad, Gina, Ashley Blake (Micah), and Michael Feist; and Terry, Stacy, Hannah, and Tugger Sandgren; sisters-in-law Joan Engraf, Bonnie Pinney, Jackie Blade, Neva Meisner; brother-in-law Rick Tatro; numerous nieces and nephews, her very special and best friend of over 70 years, Char Nolan; Godson Kevin Jorgensen; and her little canine companion, Maggie.
Chuck was preceded in death by her parents, sister Myrna Gravning; brother Earl (Lynn) Meisner; mother-in-law and father in-law Mardy and Harry Tatro; nephews Brad Engraf, Greg Gravning, Brian
Gravning, and Little Jimmie Zimmerman; brothers-in-law Terry Gravning, Rick Pinney and many beloved pets including their special dogs Sasha and Ginger.
In lieu of flowers please consider donating to a local animal shelter or animal rescue in her memory or a charity of your choice.
Andrew Schulenberg says
So sorry about Your loss of such a beautiful Lady. She was always so Friendly. Thoughts and Prayers to all of Her Family. 🌹🌻🌺
Peggy and Earl says
Earl joins me in sending heartfelt condolences to “Chuck’s” family at this difficult time. We want you to know that our warmest thoughts are with you in your sorrow. May they bring you comfort for today, and courage for the days ahead. May it help knowing others are sharing this sorrow with you.
Bev and Zeke says
Teryl and family, so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers through this difficult time.
Joe Olson says
This is hard news to take, Chuck was one of the few remaining Martin Olson root of my family tree.
Sorry for the loss Skip, Teryl and other family I’ve never met
Cheryl and Mark Schmidt says
Skip and family
Sending our deepest sympathy for the loss of Chuck. May you find comfort in the many memories that you hold close and dear. This will help get you through the difficult times.
Elke Brock says
Skip and Teryl I’m so sorry to hear that Chuck has gone home. Knowing that she is safe in her Lord and Savior’ arms helps but I’ll miss her and our talks. Prayers going out for the family members that are left behind. Love to all. Elke
Vern and Dyanne Erickson says
Our sympathy and prayers are to all of you. Thinking of you Skip and Teryl.
Neva Taylor-Meisner says
Chuck Tatro, a beautiful and caring soul, will be greatly missed. Thinking of the entire family with deepest sympathy and love. Honored to call Chuck, sister-in-law. Hope your memories bring comfort during a most difficult time and beyond. The Lord said it was time for a family reunion in heaven.
Cathy Morris says
Heartfelt sympathy for your loss, prayers.
David & Shari Peterson says
Lots of hugs to Skip and family during this difficult loss of Chuck. Our thoughts are with you. We have lots of great memories of her❤️
Sharon and Duane says
I’m so sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing. Hold those memories close- I’m so glad you had these past several years with your parents! Thoughts and prayers and lots of hugs for you and your family🙏🙏🙏
Wayne Walch says
Chuck and Teryl so sorry to hear this. Hugs and prayers to all if you.
Jackie Jensen says
My sincere condolences to your family. This is a huge loss for your family. She is whole and free from any pain.
Joan Jesfjeld says
So sorry for your loss will be pray that you will feel better as Time goes by rembering that she will always be with you in spirt and God loves you all
Karan Ehlers says
I am so sorry to hear of Chuck’s passing. She was such a kind and beautiful person. Hugs and prayers to all family now and in the days to follow.
Frank Gerbracht says
Heartfelt sadness at her passing. Thoughts and prayers reaching out to this beloved family.
Frank & Ty Gerbracht.
Tim Faller says
So sorry to hear of Chuck’s passing. Prayers to the whole Tatro family!
Tim and Kathy
Deann and Dennis Steckler says
Our deepest sympathy to you Skip and your family for your loss of Chuck. She was a beautiful lady and always friendly. Your memories of her will keep her close to your heart!
Bonnie Heidt says
I’m so sorry to hear about Chuck. I worked with her at the Adams County Courthouse for a few years and we had so much fun. RIP.
Bonnie Heidt
Arlene Walch says
Heaven is richer we are poorer. Prayers for everyone ✝️. A beautiful person has left us.
Kay Davis Berdahl says
Skip and Terry,
Sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers for you during this difficult time.
Beverly Hansberry says
Skip and Teryl I’m so sorry for your loss. She was a most kind wonderful soul. Sending love and prayers.
Beverly Marthaller Hansberry
Allan LeFebre says
We want to extend our sympathy at this sad time. May your family be engulfed in God’s comforting arms. Chuck was such a sweet lady that made everyone feel special. Hugs to all of you.
Larry and Barb Moe says
So sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers for your family.
Monika Cox says
So sorry for the loss of your mom she was awesome lady. She was very kind and had very warm heart sending prayers and hugs from Daniel and Monika.
Linda Asheim says
Skip, Teryl, and Mike,
So very sorry for your loss of Chuck. My love, thoughts, and prayers will continue to be with you.
Donna Tatro says
Skip My thoughts, prayers and love are with you and your family. I always enjoyed our visits when you both were in Bismarck. She will be missed but all the wonderful memories will remain. Love you all
Cleo shea says
She was an amazing person,, so sorry for your loss
Candy Tait says
Skip, Teryl and family…We just just want to offer our condolences of Chuck’s passing. She had such a huge heart and made us feel at ease when we met. We hope you will find comfort in knowing she always gave the best of herself to others. I’m sure she’s at peace and in the arms of Jesus🙏❤️
Esther Potter says
Chuck was my forever friend that I met while working at the hospital at Hettinger. We did a lot of walking together in the evenings after work and always remembered each other by sending birthday and Christmas cards. I have special memories tucked in my heart. Sending prayers of comfort to her family during this sad time.
Debbie Christman says
Skip, Teryl, and Mike, I cannot express how sad I am at the loss of Chuck. What a wonderful person she was! She was kind, caring, and always so thoughtful. I never heard her say an unkind word about anyone. What a loss for us, and a gain for heaven!!! May all the beautiful memories comfort you at this time.
LaVonne Thom Rppk says
Several years ago we came to Hettinger & Lemmon for the 100 year celebration.. I had the nicest visit with Chuck & Skip. I remembered them from when I went to school in Hettinger. I am so sorry to hear that she has passed away. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.
LaVonne Thom Rook says
LaVonne Thom Rook name was spelled incorrectly.
Barbara Luger says
My sincere condolences to you Skip. Teryl , Mike and families. She was a delightful gal. Larry always enjoyed working with her. Hang on to the great memories.
Duane & Diane Carroll says
Our condolences to Skip and family.
Loralee Adsem says
My deepest sympathy to you and your children Skip. Thinking of you
Don Gustin says
Skip, Teryl, Michael, and Families, Was shocked to hear of Chuck’s passing! So sorry to hear, remember her as always an upbeat person, great to be around! Our thoughts and prayers are with you!
Sharon Cope says
Sending thoughts and prayers to all the family.
Cindy and Ken says
Always in our hearts💑caring thoughts are heading your way.
Joe & Ramona Kurkowski says
Skip, Our hearts go out to you. We will always have the greatest admiration and love for both you and Chuck. No one could ask for more caring, self sacrificing, and loving neighbors for their parents then you guys!! My prayer will be that you find comfort in the many wonderful memories you and Chuck shared together.
Butch Pesler says
Skip, Teryl, Mike & Family, Heartfelt Condolences. Chuck Was 1 Special Lady. Times At The Shed With The With Bison Games & Pinochle Games, After Too Much Celebrating Chuck Would Give The Boys Rides Home & Pick Us All Up The Next Day. Going To Miss Her. Joe Also Sends His Condolences. RIP Chuck.
Beatta Baker says
Skip, I’m so sorry to hear of Chuck’s passing. You’re in my thoughts. Sending my deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Bruce and Renae Brandner says
So sorry to hear about Chuck. Sincere sympathy to Skip and family. I worked with Chuck at Medcenter One, she was a wonderful person and will be missed. Bruce worked with Skip for awhile also. Thoughts and prayers to you all.
Deb Miller says
Skip and family, We were sad to hear of Chuck’s passing. Our prayers are with you. Leo and Deb Miller
Elaine Baker says
I’m sorry to hear about Chuck her loss will be felt for a long time. She won’t be in pain anymore and has her wings in heaven. She was a wonderful neighbor and I missed them both when they moved to Montana. Skip, Teryl and Mike my thoughts and prayers are with you. God help you at this most sorrowful time. I wish I could be there, but hope to be with you in Hettinger. My love and hugs
Shirley Skinner says
Teryl, our hearts are breaking for you… the loss of our Mother has to be one of the worst! Thinking of you, praying for you! Hugs and much love! We are here watching the service virtually since we could not be there.
Jerome and Lorayne Schaefer says
Skip and family, Jerome and I are very sorry to hear of the loss of Chuck. May she rest in peace. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Connie Sims says
Skip, thinking of you. My prayers are with you and your family.
Ron Dye says
Teryl (Wade) sorry to hear about you mother. Sure wished I would have met them both but I left before they made the move to Forsyth. Glad to know that you two got to spend more time with them since 2018.
Denise Jeske says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Jerry & Denise
Bob and Jan Quickstad says
Our sincere condolences to Skip and family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.