Darlene Kalinski's Obituary
Loving wife of 68 years to Adolph, loving mother to David, Daniel and Dara Edwards, suffered a massive stroke and died on September 27th. At her time of death, she was surrounded by family and was never alone. She is survived by her husband, 3 children, 4 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren, 3 brothers and two sisters.
She is further survived by a daughter-in-law, Susan (wife of Daniel), son-in-law, Todd Edwards (husband to Dara). Her grandchildren are: David Jr., Laura, Kirstie, and TJ. Her great grandchildren are: Emma, Eva, Libby, and Finn.
She was born on August 18, 1927 in Carpio, North Dakota to Harry and Mildred Mandt. Soon to follow her, and in her charge during the early days were: Gordon, Harry, Darwin, Julene, JoAnne, and Susie. Preceding her in death were her parents and sister, Julene.
When she fell in love, it was forever. A young man from the Navy, in uniform, simply happened along at a carnival and taking a chance, they went together for a ride on a Ferris Wheel. Whatever the cosmic forces in play on this day, from that point forward, they were destine to become life long partners.
Through all the years of raising a family, Darlene was also employed. A long time employee of the Safeway Corporation at the 38th Street store in Tacoma and later in life, she found time to be a “Paraeducator” for the Fern Hill Grade School also located in Tacoma. She was instrumental in formulating special classes for the mathematically challenged and those who were gifted in math. She held many other responsibilities at the school and all that knew her, were very thankful for her contributions.
Darlene was always an avid reader. Along with reading, there were the crossword puzzles and any word game. Her vocabulary was astonishing when put to paper or in contest. There was great joy in her quest of completing the next crossword puzzle without any erasures, and when finished, she would beam with delight. Once satisfied the puzzle was completed, she would turn to crocheting. These adroit hands could fashion any pattern and any design. Beautiful hands that seemed to blur when in action created beautiful doilies which were directly from her heart.
Darlene also loved to garden. Flowers, vegetables, fruit, and just having a nice lawn were some of her favorite activities at home. Know too, she was equally skilled in the kitchen. We were frequently treated to fresh home baked goods, jellies, jams, canned fruit, and wonderful meals by her hand throughout our childhood and into our adult life. No one can cook better than Mom.
Her other free time interest was league bowling. Keen to get a better score, she was a student of the game. She kept a record of her advancements and a collection of the many awards she obtained over the years. She was clearly skilled and the one to have on your team.
Her family has been so very lucky to have such great love, consistency, compassion, care, as well as, forgiveness in our formative days and in our adult lives.
She taught us to love and she is our first love. We shall take her loving memory with us to our last days.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity in the name of Darlene Kalinski.
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