Charlene A. Dyke

LOWELL - Charlene A. Dyke, age 61, a longtime resident of Lowell, passed away Sunday, December 3, 2018 at the High Point House in Haverhill following a long and courageous battle with cancer.

She was born in Lowell on March 11, 1957, and was the daughter of the late Charles E. and Bertha L. (Gunderson) Dyke. She received her education in Lowell schools and was a graduate of Lowell High School, class of 1975.

Prior to her illness, Charlene was employed for many years as a special needs driver by SP & R Transportation in Dracut and was affectionately known by the kids as "Myrtle The Turtle". Previous to that she worked in that same capacity for Community Teamwork, Inc.

She loved animals and children, especially her 16 adopted grandchildren and all of the children she drove throughout the years.

She is survived by her son and daughter, Robert M. Mellen and Kerry A. Mellen, both of Lowell; 16 adopted grandchildren; and family friends, who were like sisters to her, Ethelinda Reardon of Chelmsford and Marilyn Marsh of Lowell. She was the longtime companion of the late Walter Danico.

ARRANGEMENTS - Relatives and friends are invited to attend Charlene's Life Celebration at the MCKENNA-OUELLETTE FUNERAL HOME, 327 Hildreth Street, Lowell on Thursday from 4:00 until 8:00 PM. Burial will be private.