DARLENE ENGSTROM

Darlene Joan Anderson Engstrom, passed away peacefully on November 25, 2022. She was born to Fred and Esther (Wentala) Anderson on June 9, 1940, in Baldwin, Wisconsin. She had three siblings and attended high school in Iron River, Wisconsin, graduating in a class of 20 in 1958. She attended UW Stout where she received her undergraduate degree in Home Economics in 1962, and her Masters degree in Food and Nutrition in 1964.

She met Bryan, the love of her life, in 1957 and their first date was his senior prom. They were married on August 26, 1961, and celebrated 61 years of marriage this year. They were an example of true love and commitment and dedicated their lives to each other and to their family. Amy Jill Engstrom Reilly was born in 1966 and Lisa Joy Engstrom Jermain was born in 1968. Darlene first taught classes in Colfax, Wisconsin and later at UW Stout when she was finishing her degree. She also taught Home Economics in Libertyville, Illinois, before they moved to Eau Claire, Wisconsin in 1966. She and Bryan have lived in Neenah since 1967, except for a brief few years in Reno, Nevada.

Darlene was the epitome of kindness, goodness and devotion to others. Through all the pain and suffering she endured in her life, she remained steadfast and never complained because she didn't want others to worry or be burdened. She was the ultimate champion of her five grandchildren and never missed a show choir competition, musical, volleyball game, soccer game, karate tournament or concert. She established many family traditions, which we will carry on, including the famous Sunday Suppers where we gathered every Sunday for a delicious dinner, conversation and laughter. Birthdays and holidays were extremely special and meaningful to her. She was the absolute best mother, friend, grandmother, sister and spouse to all the people she loved. She was also very involved in her church, Gloria Dei Lutheran Church and was a woman of great faith. She loved to sew, cook, quilt, read and travel. She and Bryan have visited sixty countries on their multiple cruises and most all of the fifty states.

She is survived by her husband, Bryan Fred Engstrom; her two daughters: Amy Jill Engstrom Reilly (Steve Reilly), and Lisa Joy Engstrom Jermain (Patrick Jermain). She is also survived by her five grandchildren: Megan Reilly, Madelyn Reilly, Patrick Johnston, Ethan Jermain and Luke Jermain. Additionally, her sister, Beverly Denman resides in Arkansas; and her brother, Dale Anderson (Shelley Anderson) resides in Spencer, Wisconsin. She is predeceased by her parents, Fred and Esther Anderson; and her brother, Roger Anderson (Crystal Nelson).

A Celebration of Life will be held at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 1140 Tullar Road, in Neenah on Saturday, December 3, with the visitation beginning at 9:30AM and the service following at 11:00AM.

The family would like to especially thank all of the wonderful and caring nurses, CNAs, therapists and all of the staff at Edenbrook Skilled Nursing Facility in Oshkosh for their excellent care. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Endowment Fund at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church.