Charlotte Ann Lodes (Blackburn)

Charlotte Ann Lodes, 92, passed away on February 10,2024 in Ridgway, Colorado, at the home of her daughter, Kristi, surrounded by many of her loved ones.

Charlotte was born in Mitchell, Nebraska on November 27,1931 to Horace (Jeff) and Thelma Blackburn.  She grew up on her family’s farm outside of Mitchell and graduated from Liberty High School.  She went on to earn her Registered Nurse degree from Western Nebraska Community College in Scottsbluff, Nebraska.  She made several lifetime friends there and she loved playing volleyball, going to the movies, and dancing.  After leaving WNCC, she did an affiliation with the Methodist Hospital in Denver, Colorado.

She met her husband of 71 years, James D. Lodes in Scottsbluff on a night out with the girls. They were married on April 6, 1953.  They went on to live in Arizona, Colorado, and Nebraska before settling down in Sidney, Nebraska where they raised four children and were blessed with four grandchildren.

Charlotte began her career as an RN in Sidney, working at Sidney Memorial Hospital for many years until she resigned to work for Dr.’s Cutright, Cornellius, and Akerson part time.  While raising four children and eventually enjoying her grandchildren, Hayden, Cody, Olyvia, and Evan, who all knew her to be Gaga.

She enjoyed spending time with her friends, attending the 30/30 club dinners and dancing, bridge club, playing the piano, and spending time with her children and grandchildren, who were the greatest blessings of her life.

Charlotte is survived by her children, son Gene Lodes (Angie Pethound), daughters Lori Nicholson (Jerry Nicholson), Kristi Meyer (Troy Meyer), and Teri Frerichs (Trevor Frerichs), grandsons Hayden Frerichs, Cody Frerichs, and Evan Nicholson (Stephanie Nicholson), and granddaughter Olyvia Frerichs.

She followed her husband Jim after only three months into the hands of Our beloved Father in Heaven.

Our Mom and Gaga will be missed for her special laughter and beautiful smile.  She has left us with a plethora of memories that we will cherish daily and hold in our hearts forever.  Her frequent words of “good water” will always make us laugh.  Rest in peace, Mom/Gaga.  Be with God.

Crippin Funeral Home is assisting Mrs. Lodes family.