Darlene Walker

Darlene was born on March 20, 1932 in Hallock, Mn., the daughter of Walter and Viola (Gaida) Nelson. She graduated from Kittson Central High School at Hallock and then attended Concordia College where she received a degree in social work and music.

After college, Darlene lived in Pierre, Sd., and was a parish worker for a couple of years and then moved to Duluth, Mn. She was united in marriage to Gordon Walker in 1961 in Duluth. They lived in Duluth, Lakeville, Mn., and Lompoc, Ca. before moving to Brandon, Sd. in 1968.

Darlene went back to college, earning a teaching degree, and was a substitute teacher in the Brandon and Sioux Falls schools for many years. She also worked in the medical library at Avera McKennan hospital for eight years.

Darlene had a life-long love for music. She was the choir director at the Calvary Memorial Church and shared her musical talents on the piano and organ. She also gave piano lessons for many years. Darlene and Gordon volunteered with the Gideon's Ministry for many years. She enjoyed ice skating and watching hockey.

Darlene was 92 years old when she passed away on January 24, 2025 at the Sanford Hospice Cottage in Sioux Falls. 

Grateful for having shared in her life is her husband, Gordon; four sons, Joel (Dawn), Jonathon (Lorraine), Daniel and Nathan (Melissa); eleven grandchildren, Joshua, Alex (Bruce), Lelam, Jessica, Danielle (Sam), Tate, Caleb, Cora (Joshua), Grace, Alana and Arika; and five great grandchildren, Walker, Asher, Leyton, Lydea and Noah. She is preceded in death by her parents. 

Private family services were held.