Charlotte R. Bogdan (Lau)

1934-05-10 – 2026-04-23

Age 91, from Niles, Illinois, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2026, after a long and full life. Charlotte
(Char) was born in the USA on May 10, 1934, to parents Charlotte and Ernst Lau, who had immigrated from
Dresden, Germany. In 1936, during the Great Depression, they temporarily moved back to Germany before
returning to the states through Ellis Island in 1945, after the bombing of Dresden. At just 12 years old,
Charlotte courageously cared for her younger brothers during the journey, as her father was in the men's
section of the ship.

Settling in Chicago, Illinois, the Lau family established their bakery where Charlotte and her loved ones
worked hard. On August 14, 1954, she married Edward Bogdan and together they raised their three children,
Mark, Tom, and Lynn. She was a devoted Boy Scout Den mother, cherished by all, an active church member,
and the dedicated bookkeeper for the family business, Urway Design and Manufacturing, a business that
continues to thrive under family stewardship.

As the matriarch of the family, Charlotte kept old-world traditions alive through her love for cooking and
baking. Her specialties like Stollen, Streuselkuchen, and Sauerbraten were eagerly anticipated during
holidays. She cherished family time, and also found joy in gardening, birdwatching, reading romance novels,
and basking in the sun. Known for her strength and candid nature, Charlotte's words were always full of
warmth and wisdom for her family.

Survived by her three children Mark (Jody), Tom (Jackie), and Lynn (John), Charlotte leaves behind
grandchildren Amber, Nikki (Colby), Kyle (Jess), Lauren (Paul), and great-grandchildren Colton and Keira.
She is also survived by her brother Frank (Marsha), sister-in-law Sharon, and was predeceased by her
husband Edward and brother Chris.

Moments shared with Charlotte in this bonus year were treasured by all, as the family was able to relish in
her company and the rich life she had lived. She will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love and wisdom will
forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.
May Charlotte R. Bogdan (Lau) rest in eternal peace.

Service Information:
The wake will be held on Tuesday April 28th from 4:00PM to 8:00PM and the funeral will be held Wednesday, April 29th at 11:30AM at
Skaja Funeral Home, 7812 N Milwaukee Avenue, Niles, Illinois