Charlotte Adele Aiken

CHARLOTTE ADELE (CRESTO) AIKEN

Charlotte Adele (Cresto) Aiken was born January 20, 1930 to T.A. and Adele (Roscio) Cresto in Cortez. She passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 2, 2023 at the age of 93.

Charlotte spent summers up the West Dolores River on her parents’ ranch. In the winter months, the livestock were moved to pasture in McElmo where her folks maintained an adobe cabin. Depending on the season, she attended grade school in one-room schools at either Battle Rock or near Dunton. She graduated from Montezuma County High School in 1947. She then attended and graduated from the University of Denver.

While in college, Charlotte was introduced to James “Jim” Aiken by his sister, a fellow sorority member. They were married on August 25, 1950. While in Denver, Charlotte worked for the airlines while Jim finished Law School. After his graduation, she moved back to Cortez with Jim in tow. She then taught in the Cortez School District until her retirement.

Throughout her adult life, Charlotte’s greatest love was playing Bridge. In retirement, she played several times a week. Charlotte and Jim wintered in Arizona where they played golf and Bridge with many friends they met in the RV Park. They enjoyed trips to Hawaii, Ireland, Mexico and Canada with friends.

Charlotte was preceded in death by her parents; and her sister, Loraine Steves. She is survived by her husband, Jim; son, Doug (Kristy) of Cortez; grandsons, Chris of Cortez and Ryan (Rachel) of Fruita, Colo.; and a great-grandson, Matthew Aiken of Fruita, Colo.

Private services will be held at a later date.