On November 22nd Darlene Bernhagen left us to join her Lord and Savior. Darlene was born October 24th 1925 in Lincoln Nebraska, the only daughter of Conrad and Katherine Debus. She moved to Northeast Portland at the age of two and considered herself a lifelong Oregonian. In 1944 she met and married a handsome Coast Guardsman, Marvin Bernhagen. They enjoyed 28 years together sharing their love of fishing, church and raising their family before his passing in 1972. Darlene and Marvin had three children. Valori Ann (Lori) was born in 1945, Barbara Ann (Barb) in 1948 and Marvin Junior in 1955. Lori and Barb preceded her in death.
Darlene graduated from Jefferson High School in Portland. Attended secretarial college and worked in a variety of administrative positions in the insurance industry, for a travel agency and others before finding her career home with Pendleton Woolen Mills. She worked there for over 10 years before her retirement in 1987.
Darlene is survived by Marvin Junior, his wife Karen, seven grandchildren, eighteen great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.
Darlene loved the Portland Trailblazers, the Oregon Ducks, the Seattle Mariners, her church family at Oak Hills Presbyterian, and playing cards. She was a cheerful giver, donating to her church as well as numerous ministries and charities.
If inclined, in lieu of flowers the family suggests a donation in her name direct to Oak Hills Presbyterian Church. A link is provided to assist.
