Darlene Kee

Darlene, a woman whose vibrant spirit and infectious laugh, passed away on January 30th 2026. Known for her genuine zest for life and a smile that stayed with you long after she left the room, Darlene lived a life defined by curiosity, courage, and deep love.

​Raised in Southern California, Darlene grew up with the sun on her face and the wind in her hair. As the daughter of Louise and WWII veteran Samuel Fullerton she spent her youth exploring the outdoors, fishing, camping, and riding dune buggies with her family - dragging along her little brother Sam wherever they went. She was as talented as she was adventurous, engaging in synchronized swimming and even mastering the accordion. As a true "beach babe" of her time, she also had a deep love for the coast, happy with sand between her toes and salt in the air.

​In the 1980s, Darlene moved to Bishop, CA, where she began a career as a preschool teacher. While she was dedicated to all her students, she had a soft spot for her daughter, Fawn --Darlene was known to occasionally let Fawn and a friend sneak off to the mini-mar t for candy while the rest of the class napped—a testament to her playful and rebellious heart.

Her career later took flight—literally—at the Bishop Airport. It was there that she earned her pilot’s license where she became the "Boogie Finalist." Whether she was in the air or on the ground, she embraced the Eastern Sierra lifestyle, joining bowling leagues, snowmobiling, boating and exploring what the area had to offer.

​After a period of traveling the country in the late 90s, Darlene returned to California to begin her happiest chapter yet. She found the love of her life in her husband, Don. Together, they shared a world of Harley rides, football games, and lots of new adventures.

​Darlene was a woman of many talents. She was a dedicated auxiliary member of the American Legion and spent her quieter moments tending to her gardens and crafting. However, the ocean always called her back; she cherished her annual trips to Catalina with friends and her special birthday getaways at the Queen Mary with Fawn.

​Darlene was preceded in death by her parents, Samuel and Louise Fullerton, and her beloved brother and "partner in crime," Sam Fullerton.

​She is survived by her devoted husband Don, her eternally grateful daughter Fawn, and a large, loving family of stepdaughters, grandchildren, niece, nephews, and friends whom she loved like family.

​Her final venture was the purchase of a home in the ghost town of Randsburg. While she did not get to finish the project herself, Fawn, Danny, and Don are committed to completing her vision and making that house the home she imagined.

​Darlene’s legacy is one of joy, love, and a reminder to never stop exploring. She will be missed by many, but her light remains bright in every full moon, Sierra sunset and Catalina breeze.

A reception will follow the service at the American Legion Post 574, 13876 Old Frontage Rd. Moreno Valley, CA. All are welcome, but not required, to bring a side dish to share in the celebration of Darlene’s life.