Darlene M. Eppler
Darlene M. Eppler, 77, of Machesney Park, IL, passed on to eternal life on Thursday, April 13, 2023. Born March 3, 1946, in Wichita, KS, the daughter of Weldon and Irene (Rausch) Fulbright. She married Michael “Mike” Eppler on July 9, 1966, in Wichita. They enjoyed 50 years together before his passing. Member of St. Bridget Catholic Church and the Sewing Guild at church. Her faith was very important to her. Darlene enjoyed going to auctions with her husband. She was an avid reader. She loved to bake and decorate cookies with her family. Darlene enjoyed playing scrabble with her sisters and daily talks with her brother. She loved apple themes and sunflower items. Darlene was a very talented seamstress and made many items for her family to enjoy. She adored and loved being a grandma and great-grandma. Survivors include her children, David (Val) Eppler of Dunedin, FL, and Amy (Todd) Nelson of Machesney Park; grandchildren, Graham Zediker, Clint Nelson, and MaKayla Nelson; great-granddaughter, her pride and joy, Lyla Whitmire; loving siblings, Karen (Bill) Jones, Cindy Wheeler, and Leroy Fulbright; many nieces, nephews, -in-laws, friends, and beloved feline companion, Milton. Predeceased by her parents; husband, Mike; brother-in-law, Harry; and sister-in-law, Norma. The family wishes to thank the staff at Swedish American Hospital and Alden Debes Rehabilitation and Health Care Center for their care and compassion.
As per her request, no services. Cremation rites accorded. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary, 111 1st Street, Rockford, IL 61107. Arrangements by Delehanty Funeral Home, 401 River Lane, Loves Park, IL.