OSAGE — Darlene Mae (Peters) Nicholson, an Osage woman remembered for her devotion to family, her love of music and many years helping others, died Wednesday, May 13, 2026. She was 89.
Nicholson was born August 31, 1936, on a farm near Munden, Kansas, to John and Albina Peters. She grew up on the family farm with her brother, Don, and graduated from Munden High School in 1954.
She married James Nicholson on August 7, 1954, in Osage. The couple lived in Belleville, Kansas, before moving to Osage in 1968. They raised two children, Belinda and Gregory.
Nicholson spent her early years as a homemaker and later cleaned homes for others in the Osage area for nearly 25 years. Family members also remembered her as a talented cook and someone who took pride in keeping a welcoming home.
She enjoyed traveling, collecting Beanie Babies and supporting her family’s country band. Later in life, she and her husband, Jim, performed music at dances, with Darlene playing the Omnichord.
She is survived by her daughter, Belinda Borchardt, and son-in-law, Mark, of Grafton; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and other relatives and friends.
Nicholson was preceded in death by her husband, James; her son, Gregory; her parents; and her brother, Don Peters.
A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at Hoff Celebrations – Champion Chapel in Osage, with visitation one hour before the service. Burial will be in Osage Cemetery.
Hoff Celebrations – Champion Chapel of Osage is handling arrangements. To read more and see the full obituary, please click here.
If you would like an obituary, remembrance or tribute story published in NIT, please email the details to NORTHIOWATODAY@GMAIL.COM. This is a free service.