March 21, 1926 – July 24, 2025
Ann Marie Darbyshire, age 99, of Algona, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at the Kossuth Regional Health Center. Her family will celebrate her life privately. Lentz Funeral Home of Algona is assisting the family.
Ann, the daughter of Jacob and Alpha Jeanette (Bailey) Sommer, was born on March 21, 1926, in Washington, Iowa. She graduated from Crawfordsville High School in 1944 and attended cosmetology school. In 1945, she married Robert Darbyshire, and together they shared 30 years of marriage.
Ann spent much of her career as a bank teller at First Interstate Bank, where her kindness, professionalism, and warm demeanor made her a trusted and valued presence. She retired in 1990 after many years of dedicated service.
Ann lived a life of grace. She had a deep love for flowers and could often be found in her garden, tending to the blooms that brought her peace and joy. She found happiness in life’s simple pleasures, especially playing cards—a favorite pastime she shared with family and friends. Whether at the card table or in her backyard among the flowers, Ann brought warmth and steadiness to every moment.
She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who helped raise her grandchildren with patience, love, and gentle guidance. Her home was always welcoming—filled with laughter, home-cooked meals, and the quiet strength of a woman who led by example.
Whether dressed impeccably for the day or gathered around the table with loved ones, Ann brought a sense of calm and kindness wherever she went. Her gentle spirit, enduring patience, and quiet strength were the foundation of her family.
Ann’s memory will be lovingly cherished by her daughters: Kathy Knudson (Doug) of Estherville, Connie Farnham of Algona, and Linda Ressler (Bob)of Fergus Falls, MN; her five grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; and her sister, Margia Irene White of Algona.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Jake and Jeanette Sommer and her brothers Everett and Lyle Sommer.
Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched- in the love she gave, the values she instilled, and the quiet strength she carried through each day.
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