Darlene Roberts Lois Griffin, 91, was taken home peacefully to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on January 1, 2024. She leaves her loving daughter, Danette Nicholl and son-in-law David Nicholl; her granddaughters Sonya Jefferson and life partner Tom Papp, Amy Stauffacher, great-grandson Marcus Ludwig, sister Aloyce Roberts Berglund, two step-grand-children, six step-great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews to cherish her memory. She was preceded in death by her husband Bill Griffin, her daughter Denese DeWitt, granddaughter Mara Stauffacher, and brother Wade Roberts.
Dar was born December 16, 1932 to Wade and Louise Roberts and grew up in Waterloo, Iowa. Following high school she enlisted in the U.S. Army where she was stationed at Camp Cooke, Santa Maria, California. On June 21, 1952 Dar married the love of her life, Bill, whom she met while stationed at Camp Cooke. After serving in the Army, she and Bill moved to the Midwest, settling in Cedar Falls where they raised their family. They retired to the state of Texas in 1996.
Dar was a devoted mother, loving wife, and amazing grandmother. Her nature brightened the lives of her family and friends. Bill and Dar were avid fishermen, which brought them many years of joy. Over the years, they spent almost every weekend and vacation in their boat with fishing poles in their hands and smiles on their faces. We will miss her wonderful sense of humor and quick wit. Dar was also passionate about gardening and tended the most beautiful roses.
Dar was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2013 and our slow good-bye began. It impacted everyone who knew and loved her. Throughout her disease, her courage and resilience were remarkable, reminding us that her spirit remained alive and well. Her love lives on in our hearts.
A memorial service will be held at 11.00 am, January 16 in the Chapel at Lutheran Church of Hope in West Des Moines, Iowa with a luncheon following at the church. A short Military presentation and burial will be at 2:00 pm at the Van Meter, Iowa Veterans Cemetery.
The Memorial Service will be live streamed at:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85632716046?pwd=DfhY9b3CiuhSWHo7BQ9PivdQRTHzSu.1
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