Darlene Jurkowski

Darlene was proud to have spent her career as a devoted first grade and remedial reading teacher with Lansing School District 158 in Lansing, IL. Known affectionately to generations of children as “Mrs. J,” she loved her students deeply and took great joy in watching them grow and succeed. One of her greatest pleasures was unexpectedly meeting former students and their families while out enjoying her favorite pastimes.

Darlene loved to shop and explore. She could often be found browsing “Super Saturday” mall sales, antique shops, farmers' markets, and community festivals. She delighted in seeing new places, including a memorable journey aboard the Amtrak Empire Builder scenic rail line to Whitefish, MT. She also enjoyed road trips to the East Coast, visits to beautiful Mackinac Island and to the home of Elvis Presley's Graceland in Memphis, TN.

Affectionately known as “Great Grams,” Darlene cherished the time she spent with her great-grandchildren, Lillian (6), Valen (3), and Cary (1). Their laughter and visits brought her tremendous joy.

She is survived by her brother, Sam (Marilyn) Lemaich of Missoula, MT; her daughter, Kathlene (Michael) Armstrong of LaPorte, IN; and her grandson, Steven (Leisha) Armstrong of Troy, MI, along with their daughter, great-granddaughter, Lillian Armstrong. She is also survived by her granddaughter, Samantha (Colby) Armstrong-Kus of Carmel, IN, and their sons, great-grandsons, Valen and Cary Kus.

She is lovingly remembered by her nieces, Debra (Eddie) Saffell of Grain Valley, MO, and Danielia and Daisy Lemaich-Kotler of Driggs, ID; and by her nephews, Steven (Debbie) Wickliffe of Franklin, TN, and Noah Lemaich of New York, NY.

Darlene was preceded in death by her mother, Daisy Lemaich Popovic (née Petrin); her father, Steve Lemaich of Chicago, IL; her husband, Donald Jurkowski, of Whiting, IN; her son, Mark Steven Peter Pentek of Chicago Heights, IL; and her sister, Shirley Wickliffe of Grain Valley, MO, formerly of Memphis, TN.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the administrative staff, caregivers, nurses, activities, reception/concierge, housekeeping, maintenance, and food service team members at Brentwood at LaPorte Assisted Living Center for their kindness, compassion, and devoted care.

Darlene’s warmth, humor, love of teaching, and joy in life’s simple moments will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ChapelLawnFunerals.com for the Jurkowski family.