(nee Reith) joined her beloved husband Frank J. Charapata in heaven on March 12, 2010. She died peacefully in her home overlooking Lake Michigan surrounded by her family. Florence was predeceased by her parents Adolph and Bertha Reith, sister Helen (Fred) Parent, brothers Henry and Harold (Evelyn), and her dearly beloved son Dr. Francis P. Charapata. Florence is survived by her four children and their families, Charlene (Rand) Harteau, Dr. Steven (Pamela) Dr. Thomas (Christine), and Susan (Glenn) Margraff Sr., and the wife of Dr. Francis: Geralyn (Jim). Florence is also survived by her sisters, Gerthilda, Lucille, Irene, and her brother Eddie. Florence was an elegant woman who lived life to the fullest. She met Frank at the Eagles Ballroom and after 11 dates and many letters they were married on January 31st, 1948. Florence was a dutiful wife who followed her dear husband's teaching career to Lancaster, Antigo, Rhinelander, and finally Cudahy, Wisconsin where she moved home to be close to her family. Florence brought her family up to enjoy life. They were involved in piano, swimming, ballet, art and singing lessons. Everyone had piano lessons. Florence and Frank enjoyed their children's activities which included football, swimming, plays, first communions, confirmations, and weddings. They instilled the love of education and work ethic in their children. Life was a wonderful experience. Florence and Frank spent their free time celebrating life. They played bridge, bowled, and summered in Rhinelander, Wisconsin at their cottage. They chaperoned many trips with Frank's students to Mexico and Spain. Florence was the consummate home-maker. God was also a part of family life and Florence and Frank were blessed with 21 grandchildren, Suzanne (Michael) Madden, Dr. Christian (Kate) Harteau, Captain Steven (Renee) Harteau, and Elyce Harteau, Nathan, Frances, Patrick, Aaron, David, and Nolan Charapata, Dustin (Kathleen) and Chanell Charapata, Tyler, Michael, and Dorthea Charapata, and Cecilia, Glenn Jr., Francis, and John Paul Margraff, Bryson and Savannah La Mar. She had two great-grandchildren: Olive Madden and Bennett Harteau. Florence is further survived by many relatives, nieces, nephews and friends. The family is saddened by the loss of the matriarch but is thankful for the life that we were able to share with her. The family would like to thank those who have helped us through these times: Mary Jones, Becky, and Luanne. Gratitude goes to Archbishop Listecki who visited mom. We thank St. Matthew's Church in Oak Creek for their help with the funeral services. Visitation at the Funeral Home Tuesday, March 16, 4-8 PM, prayer service at 7 PM. Visitation also Wednesday, March 17, 2010, 10-11AM at ST. MATTHEW CHURCH, 9303 S. Chicago Avenue, Oak Creek. Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM., con-celebrated by Rev. Patrick O'Loughlin and Rev. David Reith, nephew of Florence. Interment at Holy Sepulcher Cemetery in Cudahy. If desired, memorials in Florence's memory to benefit children's education at St. Matthews School, St. Mary's School, Hales Corners, St. Thomas More High School, Wisconsin Conservatory of Lifelong Learningor the Wm. Horlick High School are greatly appreciated. PRASSER-KLECZKA BAY VIEW CHAPEL 3275 So. Howell Ave. 414-483-2322