Darlene Doris Paustian

Darlene D. Paustian, age 92, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2024 at Ridgecrest Village in Davenport, Iowa. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 24, 2025 at 1pm at the Durant American Legion. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to your favorite charity or local food bank.

She was born on August 27, 1932, in Stockton, Iowa, to Leonard and Alvina (Martens) Johannsen and lived much of her life in Durant, Iowa. Darlene married James A. Paustian on October 17, 1953, and together they shared nearly 50 years of a loving marriage until James’ passing in June of 2003. After reuniting with a former classmate, Darlene found love again and married John Lawlor on July 3, 2006. Their marriage was one of companionship, laughter and happiness. They enjoyed many cherished years together traveling and enjoying family. Darlene was an incredibly creative and hands-on person. She loved sewing, crafting, and woodworking, often spending her free time making gifts and projects for her family and friends. Many in the community benefited from her pie-making prowess at Durant’s annual firemen’s celebration. She also enjoyed playing cards and traveling, creating countless memories along the way. Whether at home or on an adventure, Darlene's joy for life and her artistic talents were evident in all she did. Her life was defined by her deep love for her family, her kind heart, and her unwavering faith. Darlene touched the lives of many with her warmth, generosity, and quiet strength. Whether through her dedication to family, her involvement in her community, or the many acts of kindness she shared, Darlene made the world a better place.

Darlene was a devoted mother to her three children: Russ Paustian (Denise) of Durant, Iowa, Lori O'Hara (Gregory) of Rio Verde, Arizona, and Kevin Paustian (Andrea Haan) of Aurora, Colorado. She was the proud grandmother of seven: Taylor (Andy Brommel), Brady (Jennifer), Sydney Paustian, Riley, and Shelby Paustian, and Nick (Kristen) and Andrew O'Hara. Additionally, she was blessed with ten great-grandchildren. Other important people in her life include her sister, Della (Jim) Reimers and many nieces and nephews; her husband of 18 years John; along with John’s family, Jeff and Ann (Lawlor) Harrington and grandchildren: Ally and Tony Soldati.

Darlene was predeceased by her parents, Leonard and Alvina Johannsen; her husband, James A. Paustian; sister, Phyllis Kroeger; brother, William Johannsen; and her great-granddaughter, Scarlet.