Charlotte Detra

Charlotte Ann Detra, age 83, passed away peacefully at her residence on April 23, 2025. She was the third child born to Ralph and Beatrice (Buttke) Runk, in Ontonagon, Michigan on August 4, 1941.

Earning her Associate Degree from a local Madison technical college in the early 1960s led to her serving as the Supervisor of M&I Banks Data Processing Center for over three decades. She was an indispensable troubleshooter,  and helped launch data centers across Wisconsin and other states, earning respect and admiration for her commitment and skill.

Charlotte lived a vibrant life filled with travel, creativity, and passion for her many hobbies. She explored the world, journeying to Australia, Greece, Ireland and every US state except Maine and Alaska. Charlotte also had an extraordinary talent and enthusiasm for crafting handmade greeting cards, cherished by family and friends alike. For decades, she eagerly joined her sisters in creating these special handmade cards, every week, a tradition that brought joy and anticipation to those lucky enough to receive them.

Charlotte loved many forms of entertainment. Being a voracious reader of her favorite author Nora Roberts, and sharing her love of fantasy books of all kinds to all her children and grandchildren. The Camelot Broadway Musical soundtrack and Dean Martin could be heard every cleaning day while her sons were growing up, showing her love of both music and a clean home. Movies are where most of her family remember her love of entertainment. She maintained an extensive and diverse collection of VHS, DVD and Blu-Ray, delighting her children and grandchildren with movies during family visits, creating lasting memories for all.

Charlotte is survived by her son Jon Detra, his wife Niko and their children Oliver, Jasmin and Lucille; her son Scot Detra, and his children Charlotte and Charlene; her siblings Shelbie, Sharon, and Roger. She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister Shirley; and her brother Ralph.

A Mass of Christian Burial celebrating Charlotte’s life will be held on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Dennis Catholic Church, 505 Dempsey Rd, Madison. Friends and family are invited to gather for a visitation at the church from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service.

To view and sign Charlotte’s guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.