WEST UNION, IA – The North Iowa community is honoring the memory of Darlene Marcella Kuhlers, a devoted mother and longtime Clear Lake resident who passed away on April 30, 2026, at Stoney Brook Assisted Living in West Union.
An Iowa woman with a deep love for family and exploration, Darlene was born on January 3, 1934, in rural Floyd County and graduated from Colwell Consolidated School. She married Duane Kuhlers in 1954, beginning a 60-year journey that took them across the country before she spent her final 12 years as a resident in West Union. Throughout her career, Darlene worked in food service for the Clear Lake Junior High cafeteria and the Florida school system.
Darlene was a woman of many passions, including flower and vegetable gardening, baking, and listening to country music. She and Duane traveled extensively, visiting destinations such as Germany, France, Italy, and the Panama Canal. They also spent many winters golfing and relaxing on Dauphin Island, Alabama. Above all, she was a proud North Iowa resident who took immense pride in the achievements and lives of her children and grandchildren.
She was a faithful member of the Clear Lake United Methodist Church and the Ruth Circle. Her legacy of care and laughter continues through her four children, Debra, Douglas, Dennis, and Delmar, as well as her nine grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. Following her passing on April 30, 2026, she was preceded in death by her husband, Duane, in 2014.
Service Information
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 8, 2026, at the Clear Lake United Methodist Church. Arrangements are being handled by Ward Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, with burial to follow at Memorial Park Cemetery in Mason City.
View full service details and memorial photos at the funeral home website.