Dominican Sister of Peace Charlene Eisenbart, OP, (90), a native of Fowler, KS, died February 18, 2025, at the Dominican Sisters of Peace Motherhouse in Great Bend, KS. 
 
Charlene was born to Dorothy Gerber and Charles Eisenbart in 1934. 
She entered the congregation in 1952 and made her vows in 1955.  This year marks her 70th year of religious profession. 
 
Sr. Charlene earned a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from the University of St. Mary in Leavenworth, KS, and a master's degree in Elementary Education from Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, OK.  
 
Sr. Charlene dedicated 20 years to teaching in primary schools across Kansas and Colorado before spending over 30 years as a Hospital Chaplain in various hospitals in both states. She also served with the Area Council for Alcohol/Drug Services for a time. As Pastoral Director at Central Kansas Medical Center, she valued learning from those she served, believing her patients taught her “what it is like to walk in their time of suffering, pain, and death... I have truly walked on sacred ground.” She also helped establish SHARE, a support system for parents who experienced neo-natal loss. 

In her preaching at the funeral Sr. Renee Dreiling fondly remembered Charlene as “a bold and passionate woman, never one to enter a room—or even heaven—quietly. In the 90s, despite their contrasting personalities, they partnered in leading Serenity Retreats for women in recovery. While Renee spoke gently, Charlene brought energy—making them the perfect team, bringing healing and hope. Even in her later years, memories of those retreats seemed to linger in her heart, a testament to the impact of her love and ministry.” 

Her service extended beyond the hospital setting. Sr. Charlene was a proud member of the National Association of Catholic Chaplains, a dedicated volunteer at the local food bank, and had a deep love for gardening and working outdoors. 

Sr. Charlene was preceded in death by her parents and her sisters, Geraldine Dickerson and Shirley Plymale. She is survived by her sister, Darlene (Tom) Mahoney, her brother-in-law, Dave Plymale, several nieces, and a nephew. 

A Wake Service was held on Monday, February 24, and the Mass of Christian Burial followed on Tuesday, February 25. Both services took place at the Dominican Sisters of Peace Motherhouse, with burial at the Sisters' Resurrection Cemetery. 

Memorial gifts in Sister Charlene’s memory may be submitted securely online or sent to the Dominican Sisters of Peace, Office of Mission Advancement, 2320 Airport Dr, Columbus, OH 43219. 

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