Darlene Jean Schmidt

Darlene will be remembered for her generosity, sense of humor, and quick wit. While her family deeply mourn her passing, they find comfort in holding tight to the beautiful memories she left behind.

Darlene was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota to Gertrude and Jalmer Simonson. One of six children, Darlene grew up in the Phillips neighborhood and graduated from “the old” South High School.

Darlene was a wonderful mother and wife who lived a life rooted in love for her family and community. As a dedicated mother and generous host, she found true fulfillment in taking care of everyone around her.

Retired with her husband Duane of 48 years to Clearwater lake, their lakeside home became a gathering place of joy, laughter, and lasting memories for their family.

Darlene had a gift for turning the ordinary into the extraordinary, decorating her home inside and out for every holiday to create an environment of pure magic. She had a passion for baking, and Christmas was her time to shine. Each year, she turned her kitchen into a holiday bakery, turning out hundreds of cookies that became a staple of her family’s festive traditions.

Darlene loved life at the lake. She enjoyed fishing from the dock, having bonfires and making s’more’s with her grandchildren, and driving her golf cart through the campground. She had a beautiful bond with wildlife, always keeping the feeders full for the birds, squirrels, and deer.

Darlene is resting now alongside her husband Duane, daughter Jenny, and loving parents Gertrude and Jalmer.

She is survived by her daughters, Kim and Toni (Troy); grandchildren, Jordan, Adrianna, Jeremy, Meranda, Justin, Andrew, Andrea, Jeffrey, and Nicholas; and a host of great and great-great grandchildren.