Darlene Doris Stoermer, daughter of Thompson Harrison and Verie Opal Orma (Shott) Halstead, was born October 8, 1930 at the theater, in Everly, Iowa. She received her education in Emmetsburg, where her family made their home.

On June 7, 1947, Darlene was united in marriage to Leonard Roscoe Martinson at the Congregational Church in Emmetsburg, Iowa. Their plan had been to be married in the Methodist Church but it burned down a week before the wedding. To this union three children were born, Anna, Ronald and Sherry. Leonard passed away on August 27, 1972.

On November 9, 1974 God joined together Filmore Stoermer and Darlene in marriage, starting a whole new chapter in her life. They shared may happy times throughout the following years.

Darlene was first and foremost a wife, mother and grandmother, her family always coming first, after God. Her faith in God and Jesus Christ and her belief in life everlasting kept her continually trying to be the best wife, mother and grandmother, she could possibly be. Darlene always hoped that along life's way she was able to help at least one person to know and love God and Jesus.

Darlene enjoyed helping others. She also loved caring for her flower beds during the summers and gardening. She held church services at the Ruthven Care Center. Darlene and Filmore led many tours to several different countries, allowing them extensive world travels.

Darlene wrote poetry throughout her life and was awarded two trophies for her poems and was listed in the Poets Hall of Fame.

Darlene passed away January 4, 2018 at the Palo Alto County Hospital in Emmetsburg, Iowa at the age of 87. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands, Leonard and Filmore (1992); and several sisters and brothers.

Left to rejoice that she is with the Lord are her children, Anna Marie (Mark) Higgins of Gillett Grove, Iowa, Ronald Martinson, and Sherry Rae (Gilbert) Kjos of Sioux City, Iowa; four grandchildren, Heather Higgins, Dwaine Higgins, Lewis Martinson and Jeannette Kay Kjos; several sisters and brothers; as well as many other relatives and friends.

Darlene's one wish in life is for those she knows and loves to truly trust and believe in God and Jesus Christ, and the life hereafter. Things are not always easy but when you accept the word of God they are made easier.