Darlene E. Zink

Darlene passed into the arms of her Lord on March 14, 2026. She will be celebrating Easter with all her family that have gone before her. She was surrounded by the love of her family, Husband Don, daughter Dawn and Son David. She was born on March 9th, 1938 at home to George and Elsie (Michel) Stilwell. She was the last of four children. She was born during a snowstorm, her dad carried her on a pillow because she was so small, he called her his "pillow baby". She married the love of her life Don Zink on September 26, 1964 in Stoddard at St Matthew's Lutheran Church. She and Donnie lived in the same house their entire married life, raised their daughter Dawn and Son David there and had many happy memories in that house.

Darlene was a member of the Stoddard American legion for many years; she was active in the church and helped with many events at the Legion. She also babysat for many families in Stoddard, especially for Arlene and Arnie Schroeder and Bob and Sharon Von Ruden. She in later years Cleaned for Lawrynk's Grocery store, the Stoddard post office and the Thirsty turtle and Big River.

She enjoyed her gardens and canning, baking and cooking for her family and friends, most of her close friends will be waiting for her in heaven, what a joyful day it will be for mom. She did beautiful embroidery; her stiches were so delicate and natural.

Darlene is survived by her husband of 61 years Don, Daughter Dawn (Dean) Nerison and their children Allen (Caitlian) Nerison, April Nerison and Great Grandson Dominic Nerison (son of Allen), son David (Deb) Zink and their children Allison Zink, Cody Zink, Great granddaughter Ava Zink and great grandson Thatcher Stopla (children of Allison); niece Deb (John) jones and their children Trisha, Elizabeth, Katherine, Tommy, Christine and Jared and Great Nephews Axten and Waylon; sister-in-law Joyce Stilwell and Neice Verona Lachman and her family

She is proceeded in death by her parents George and Elsie, Sister and brother in-law Betty Jane and Irvin Goplin, brothers Gerald and Harlan Stilwell.

The family want to give a heartfelt Thank you to all the Staff of Norseland Nursing and St. Croix Hospice Staff. May God keep you all wrapped in his loving arms.

Per Darlene's wishes she will be cremated and a joint celebration of life will be held after the passing of her husband. The Seland Funeral Home is assisting the family. Condolences may be given at selandsfuneralhome.com.