Darlene Catherine (Wanous) Dahlman

Darlene Catherine Dahlman On July 29, 2023, surrounded by her loving family, Darlene Catherine (Wanous) Dahlman of Dassel, MN entered her heavenly home after a brief stay at Dassel Lakeside Generations, while displaying immense courage while battling several illnesses. Darlene was born on August 30, 1938, in Hutchinson, MN, to Richard and Sophie Wanous. Darlene's life was one of love, dedication, and selflessness. Darlene's early years were spent on the family farm south of Silver Lake, MN. She received her education at Silver Lake High School, graduating in 1956. Her compassion for others led her to pursue a career in nursing, and during her time in Hutchinson, she met Robert Dahlman. They were united in marriage on March 3, 1962, at Faith Lutheran Church in Hutchinson, MN. A devout member of Stockholm Lutheran Church, rural Cokato, MN, Darlene's faith was a guiding light throughout her life. Together with Robert, they were blessed with six children, whom she loved and cared for deeply: Daryl Dahlman, Jane (Mark) Schmidt, Brian (Tiffany) Dahlman, June (Wade) Dahlman-Hartl, Dawn (Aaron) Rauschendorfer, and Kent Dahlman. Beyond her role as a dedicated mother and wife, Darlene was an integral part of Dahlman Seed Company, LLP, and RDD Farms LP for over five decades. Whether as a bookkeeper, farm laborer, or the one who prepared meals for family and hired help, Darlene's contributions were immeasurable. Yet, it was in raising her children that she found the greatest joy and fulfillment. Darlene's talents extended beyond the farm. Her culinary expertise delighted everyone around her, and she took immense pleasure in seeing others savor her delicious creations. In her leisure time, she enjoyed birdwatching, playing cards, using her iPad, dining out, and going on drives through the countryside. Old-time country music and polka tunes brought happiness to her heart. Gardening and canning were cherished hobbies, and fishing held a special place in her memories. Darlene was an active member of the local Happy Homemakers Birthday Club and had a creative spirit that touched many lives. She also contributed to the Dassel Boy Scout Troop in her earlier years. Throughout her life, Darlene's selflessness knew no bounds. Her strength and endurance inspired all who knew her. She was a cornerstone of many events due to her culinary contributions to various church events and celebrations-Valentines Dinner, Fall Festival, Harvest Festival, potlucks, and serving Sunday summer lunches at church. Darlene is survived by her husband Robert, of 61 years; her six children, and her twelve adored grandchildren: Sarah, Rebecca, Levi, and Grace Schmidt; Disa and Dayna Dahlman; Hunter and Mackenzie Hartl; and Henry, Mary, Arthur, and Sophia Rauschendorfer. She is also survived by her sister Judy Holden of Fulda, MN, sister-in-law Muriel Saari, of Marcell, MN, and numerous other loving family members and friends. Darlene was preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Sophie Wanous, her in-laws, Arthur and Helen Dahlman, her brother Richard Wanous, brother-in-law Gary Holden, brother-in-law Jack Saari, and other dear departed ones. Funeral services to celebrate the life of Darlene Catherine Dahlman will take place on Thursday, August 3, 2023, at 11am. Her final resting place will be at the Stockholm Lutheran Cemetery. Her legacy of love and devotion will forever live on in the hearts of her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Though she is deeply missed, her memory will be cherished until the day we reunite. Blessed be the memory of Darlene, who has left an indelible mark on our lives. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 2nd from 5pm to 7pm and on Thursday, August 3, 2023, one hour prior to the service at Stockholm Lutheran Church in rural Cokato.

Darlene Catherine (Wanous) Dahlman

August 30, 1938 - July 29, 2023