In loving memory of

Darlene Joyce Karr
October 13, 1927 - July 9, 2021

Darlene Joyce Karr, age 93 of Otley, passed away on Friday, July 9, 2021 at the Comfort House in Pella. No services are planned for Darlene. Condolences may be left for the family at www.coburnfuneralhomes.com


The daughter of Berlin Victor and Ann Elizabeth (Smith) Ballard, Darlene was born on October 13, 1927 in Prairie CIty, Iowa. She graduated from Monroe High School. On May 25, 1946, she was united in marriage to Bill E. Karr at the Methodist Church in Monroe.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Bill; daughters, Sharon Joyce (John) Hjortshoj, Susan Jean (Tracy) Swift and Jennie Rae Baker; nine grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren and a sister, Donna Ballard. Preceding Darlene in death were her parents, an infant brother, four sisters and an infant grandson.

Tributes

Brad Clement wrote on Jul 22, 2021:

"While saddened to hear of Aunt Darlene's passing we are comforted by the MANY fond memories that remain. The many times we all got together at Grandpa & Grandma Ballard's with the extended family are at the top of the list. Along with Uncle Bill, she was a servant leader for family, friends, and everyone who crossed their paths. Her work with the family genealogy and "life memory book" are a legacy to continually be cherished. Love and prayers to the immediate family and all who were impacted by her in various ways. The Clement Family "

Karen Vink wrote on Jul 19, 2021:

"I greatly enjoyed caring for Darlene at Comfort House, and listening to her life stories. Reading her book of memories is amazing! She was such a grateful woman for all done for her. She was delighted when we shared that we have the same middle name! I had relatives in the old RedRock area too and knew several same people she did. May the Lord comfort you all, as you cherish the many memories she gave you over the years. Karen Vink, Night CNA at Hospice of Pella Comfort House."

Brenda tripp Lanser wrote on Jul 15, 2021:

"So sorry to hear this. She was a special lady."

Patricia Plate wrote on Jul 13, 2021:

"I am posting this from Darlene Brouwer... she did not know of Darlene?s passing until today.. she sends her condolences & reflected on her nice visit with Darlene a couple of years ago... I am her niece Pat Plate & I have heard her mention Darlene?s name over the years"

Kay Jensen wrote on Jul 13, 2021:

"I met Darlene when I was a new teacher at Monroe School in the fall of 1974. As I did home visits with students, one of the questions was about the cake decorating unit. Uh oh, that was not in the college class or 4-H background I had. So, I signed up with Darlene for class. I enjoyed her expertise and her common sense application of living skills. Both were a help to me as a beginner in the classroom. Darlene was so talented. Many students have taken the basics that I learned from her. I went on to teach at Knoxville, so count up 35 years with cake decorating as a part of foods class. Kay Jensen"