Darlene Sophie Umholtz

Born November 3, 1940 in Le Mars, Iowa to Henry and Karla (Ide) Groenhagen, Darlene lived a life filled with love, faith, and devotion to her family and community. She married the love of her life, Rev. Charles Henry “Moose” Umholtz, on September 6, 1958 in Tunica, Mississippi. They shared many wonderful years together before his passing in 2013.

Darlene had a kind heart and a vibrant spirit. She worked as a school bus driver for nearly 20 years in the Elmwood School District, bringing joy to countless children by decorating her bus for holidays and surprising them with treats. She had a deep love for music and performed with her sisters in the Miller Melodies, singing for many years in senior homes where she brought joy to numerous residents. She also played the accordion as part of the 4G’s, a group she formed with three of her sisters, and was known for her talent in playing the spoons, always adding a special rhythm to family gatherings and performances.

Darlene valued her faith and was most recently connected with LaMarsh Baptist Church in Mapleton. She also cared deeply about her community and served on the board of the Cottonwood Cemetery Association for many years.

She will be dearly missed by her son, Mark Robert (Katherine) Umholtz of Mapleton; her daughter-in-law, Lisa Umholtz of Glasford; her son-in-law, Dennis Layne of Brimfield; and her grandson, Christopher Layne of Brimfield.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her daughter, Karla Sue Layne; her son, Thomas Henry Umholtz; and six beloved sisters, Elaine H. Spracklen, Caroline R. Irwin, Karla Lily Wiltman, Frieda B. J. Groenhagen, Rose M. Groenhagen, and Joan M. DeSutter.

A gathering celebrating Darlene’s life will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 22, 2025 at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. Private inurnment will take place in Cottonwood Cemetery in Hanna City.

Memorial contributions may be made to Cottonwood Cemetery Association or to OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home.

To share condolences online, please visit www.preston-hanley.com