Carole Frances Christner

Carole Frances Christner, 79, of Brighton, Iowa passed away from heart complications, Thursday, January 5, 2023, at the University of Iowa.

Per her request, cremation was performed. A celebration of life will be held at the Old School Gym 203 W Main St Brighton, IA from 11:00 – 5:00 on Saturday, August 5, 2023. Cover dish to share and no smoking or drinking on premises. A general memorial has been established. The Beatty Peterseim Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Carole was born July 16, 1943, in Cedar Falls, IA, the daughter of Howard William and Frances Margaret (Bragonier) Southall. She was united in marriage to Edward Lee Christner on November 26, 1960, in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, having four children, and later divorcing.

She was the owner of Crooked Creek Trade Company for over 40 years. She was instrumental in starting the Log Village at Old Threshers and the Rendezvous Mountain Men Encampment at the Iowa State Fair. She researched and authored the Christner Family History Book.

Survivors include her children Richard “Bilbo” Christner of Brighton, Crystle Christner of Washington, and Rodney (Courtney) Christner of Washington, IA, two siblings: Cynthia (Michael) Meyers of Edgewood, IA, and John (Holly) Southall of Cedar Falls, IA, nine grandchildren, one step-grandson, and thirteen great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, son Randall (Randy) in 1989, husband Edward, and siblings Catherine, Robert, and Tom.