Darlene Rooney

Born on April 26, 1939, in Detroit, Michigan, Darlene was the beloved daughter of the late Stanley and Gladys Kukla. She was raised in Detroit alongside her younger brother, Stanley, where she developed her love of family, strong sense of independence, and caring heart.

As an OB-GYN nurse, Darlene truly loved what she did. She found joy in caring for mothers and babies and especially loved teaching Lamaze classes, helping countless families prepare to welcome a new life into the world. She was incredibly smart, quick-witted, and always eager to share her knowledge with others.

Anyone who knew Darlene knew she had a little spark to her. She was spunky, independent, and never afraid to speak her mind. She had an incredible sense of style and always looked put together, whether she was headed to a special event or just out running errands. She loved reading, traveling, and challenging herself with puzzle games, but nothing made her happier than spending time with her family. She had a way of making ordinary moments feel special, and her laughter, stories, and love will be remembered for years to come.

Darlene was preceded in death by her parents, Stanley and Gladys Kukla; her daughters, Rikki Gross and Denise Hale; and her beloved grandson, Spencer.

She leaves behind the love of her life and husband of nearly 68 years, John Rooney; her brother, Stanley (Linda) Kukla; her sons-in-law, Rick Gross and Steven Hale; her grandchildren, Tye Gross and Lia (Vincent) Shay; as well as many extended family members and dear friends who will miss her deeply.

Darlene will be remembered for her intelligence, her strength, her spunky personality, her unmistakable sense of style, and the love she poured into the people around her. She leaves behind a lifetime of memories that her family will treasure forever. While our hearts are broken, we are grateful for every laugh, every lesson, and every moment we were blessed to share with her.

She was deeply loved, and she will be deeply missed.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Darlene's life during visitation on Friday, August 7, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Hill Funeral Home, 11723 S. Saginaw St., Grand Blanc, MI 48439. A funeral service will immediately follow at 3:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Darlene's memory by spending time with those you love, reading a good book, or lending a helping hand to someone in need.