Gower and Gayle, 

Please accept my heartfelt condolences on the passing of your sweet mother. Darlene was a wonder to behold. She was a force of nature to be sure, with a kind and generous spirit who always made me feel accepted and loved. I will never forget our times spent down at the lake and all the fun we had! Bill and Darlene will always have a special place in my heart.  Laura Johnson 

Dear Anderson Family,

I am saddened to hear about Darleen’s passing at 91. She was such a special person, full of life and love, and I feel so lucky to have called her my friend. We met at the gym on Battlefield Road, hitting it off as early morning risers and later became running partners. Those runs turned into something more—Darleen wasn’t just my running partner, she was a true friend, the kind who’s always there, no matter what.

Anyone who knew Darleen was blessed. She had this way of making you feel like you mattered, and she was loyal as they come. She got me my job as a parent educator with Parents as Teachers, a job I loved! She also taught me how to knit! When we couldn’t run, we’d walk & pick up cans to recycle just because she made it fun. Darleen was a teacher through and through—every moment with her was a lesson in living well. We had so many talks about exercise, nutrition, making positive choices & God. I wonder how many children Darleen read to in her lifetime? Only God knows, but I bet it was thousands! Those that knew Darleen, knew her favorites were her grandchildren and great-grandchildren who she loved with all her heart and talked of often!!

I’ll never forget the one day she skipped our run—Darleen, who never missed a single one! Turns out, it was the day her grandson Cody was born!!

You’re in my heart as you grieve. Darleen’s love and stories will live on in you. She made a difference in so many lives. I will never forget your precious amazing mom!!!

With all my love,

Sally Frisbie