Charlene Marie (Piper) Metcalf, 76, of Redfield, SD, passed away on Thursday, July 23rd, 2026, at Avantara-Redfield Nursing Home in Redfield.

Charlene was born on May 29th, 1950, in Olean, NY, where she was also raised. She, along with her brother, Raymond Charles Piper, joined the U.S. Army to serve their country during the Vietnam War. Charlene survived her brother and, after her service, found a secretarial position with the DePaul Mental Health Facility in Rochester, NY. She worked there for 20+ years until illness prevented her from returning to work. She was raised by her parents to be a concert pianist, as she was highly talented in that field, but that was not her dream. The mental health field was her passion, and she always made herself available to anyone and everyone, wherever she could be of help.

Her hobby was crocheting, and over the years she donated, by the thousands, handmade items to hospitals, churches, shelters, and animal rescue facilities - blankets, beanie hats for newborn babies, prayer cloths for hospice centers, hats, scarves, and gloves for the homeless, as well as stuffed animals for the children of her community.

Charlene moved to Redfield in 2022 to be with her family, who had moved here the year before. She truly enjoyed the peacefulness of Redfield, compared to the hectic city life she had become accustomed to. A caring community where people greet you with a smile and a wave of hello. She and her son would often take nighttime rides to watch the wildlife and the night sky, moments treasured in the heart.

Charlene is survived by her son, Raymond Charles VanBuskirk, along with his wife Heidi VanBuskirk, and four grandchildren: Joseph J. Tanksley (29), Samantha N. Swanson (25), Brandon C. VanBuskirk (24), and Colt W. VanBuskirk (11).

Charlene was known and referred to by her family as “Abba.” It was a term of endearment that began with her granddaughter, Samantha. At the age of 2, Samantha would call out “grandma,” but as she couldn’t quite pronounce the word correctly, it came out as “abba.” Samantha, insistent, as little children are at that age, didn’t need any correcting at all. From there, the word Grandma became “Abba.” To anyone who knew her well, whom she invited in as family, it was nothing to hear her say, “Just call me Abba”.

A special thank you to the residents and her staff at Avantara Nursing Home and Avera@Home Hospice. Charlene was surrounded by very loving and caring people. Everyone there was a friend to her and she loved them all.

As per Charlene’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of her life is being planned, and details will be shared here once confirmed.

Hyke Funeral Home of Redfield has assisted the family with arrangements. (www.hykefuneralhome.com).