Darlene was born at Chester, Nebraska, the second of six children, to Adolph and Johanna Firley. She graduated from Chester High School in 1953. She received a Bachelors Degree and two advanced degrees from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln.
Darlene married Richard Rischling December 26, 1957. The couple was blessed with one child, Joan, in 1958.
Darlene and Dick lived in Lincoln during their married life. Darlene taught school in Lancaster County and in the Lincoln Public Schools. She was active in many professional organizations and enjoyed leadership positions in these organizations. She served as principal of Calvert Elementary School and Dawes Middle School. Darlene often commented that she was fortunate to have chosen a life of working with children and teachers. She especially enjoyed helping beginning teachers develop into commendable professionals.
Darlene's husband, Dick, passed away in 1989 after struggling with cancer. When Darlene retired in 1996, she moved to Papillion to be near her daughter and four grandsons. Darlene became an active volunteer at St. Columbkille School, Papillion Woman's Club, and Sump Memorial Library. She served as President of Friends of the Library and of Papillion Woman's Club. She developed a Books for Babies Project in cooperation with Midlands Hospital and Papillion Woman's Club. She taught Passport Club at Carriage Hill Elementary School and St. Columbkille School. In March 2006, the City of Papillion presented Darlene with the Volunteer of the Month Award
When Darlene retired in 1996, her friends encouraged her to learn to play bridge. Darlene was soon addicted. She used her love of children and bridge to teach bridge to many students and, also, to adults. Darlene enjoyed competitive bridge but her real love was meeting wonderful bridge players in all walks of life.
Darlene traveled extensively with friends and grandchildren during retirement.
Survivors include Daughter, Joan Steffensmeier; Grandchildren, Tony (Jennifer), Danny (Ellen), Ben (Jessica), Rich, Vanecia, and Carlos; Great-Grandchildren, Joshua, Jacob, Noah, Nicholas, Nicolleena, Julia, and Grace Steffensmeier; Brother, Adolph (Joan) Firley; Sisters, Velma Kotas (John Kirby), and Marie (Don) Vavra; Nieces, Nephews, and Friends.
