Darlene Welke, age 82, of Spearfish, SD, our dear mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, passed away on August 20, 2023, at the Spearfish Canyon Healthcare, Spearfish, SD.

Darlene was born to Winfred and Mayme (Hermanson) Welke on December 7, 1940, one mile North of Sturgis, SD.

She graduated from Sturgis High School and soon started a family. During her lifespan, for many years she worked as a professional cook in several restaurants. She was well known for her culinary skills and tasty baked goods. Later, Darlene had a rewarding part-time career with Mary Kay Cosmetics and retired from Walmart after 15+years. She was exceptional in customer service and loved by many.

Darlene is survived by three of her six children: Tracy Swenby, Rowdy Wolf, and Kelly Wolf-Virng. Survivors also include 12 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren, and 1 great great grandchild. Siblings left to cherish Darlene's memory are sister-in-law, Barb Welke, Ken Welke, Gary Welke, Marlene Nichols, Mary Martell, and John Welke. She also leaves many beloved nieces, nephews, and treasured friends.

Darlene was quite the jokester and quick to pull a gag. . . from placing cornflakes or rice in your bed to placing odd objects in your freezer.  Hobbies included gardening, canning, crocheting, crafting, cooking, jigsaw puzzles, and card playing.

In lieu of a service, a "Celebration of Life" will be held at a later date.

♾️ Darlene . . .  Forever in our hearts and forever missed. ♾️