Charlene Clarice Garbow, age 77, of Callaway, MN, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, June 6, 2026, following a short but courageous battle with cancer.

Charlene was born on January 16, 1949, in White Earth, MN, the daughter of Allen Smith Sr. and Margaret (Fairbanks) Smith. She spent her early years in the White Earth community until moving with her family to Herman, MN, where she attended grade school.  They later returned to White Earth where she grew up.  As a young woman, Charlene moved to Minneapolis, MN and began building her future. In 1969, she was united in marriage to Joseph Garbow. The couple made their home in Minneapolis, where Charlene furthered her education and earned a degree in accounting. Together they were blessed with two children, and Charlene devoted herself to being a loving and active mother. In 1986, Charlene and Joe's dream of homeownership became a reality when they purchased a home in rural Callaway. Having a place of their own brought Charlene tremendous pride and joy, and it remained her cherished home for the rest of her life

Throughout her career, she served the White Earth Tribal Nation in a variety of accounting and financial positions. Her dedication and professionalism were evident through her work with the Ojibwe Forest Project, the White Earth Finance Department, and later the Circle of Life Academy.

Charlene found great joy in caring for her family. She loved preparing large meals and gathering loved ones around the table. She enjoyed trips to the casino, coloring, traveling, and spending time with friends and family. Above all, her greatest happiness came from her grandchildren. She treasured every opportunity to watch them grow, attend their activities, and share in their lives. They were truly the light of her life.  Charlene will be remembered for her kind heart, strong work ethic, unwavering love for her family, and the quiet strength she displayed throughout her life.

Charlene is survived by her daughter, Deanna Robinson; her son, Joseph (Christine); grandchildren: Arro, Cameron, Skyler, Haleigh, Takara, Melina, Devin, and Amber; two great grandchildren; two brothers, Gordy (Dinah) Smith and Mark (Paula) Smith; four sisters: Mary (Dennis) Zortman, Beverly (Danny) Stevens, Birdie (Gus) Bevins, and "Betsy"  (John Guy) Smith; and many nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; sisters: Doris (Robert) DeVall, Doretta (Thomas) Hanks, Regina (Delmar) Basswood; brothers, Allen "Tony" (Judy) Smith and Robert "Bobby" Smith; and several extended family members.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm on Monday, June 15, 2026, at the Whit Earth Community Center, White Earth, MN.