Darlene Buerkle

Darlene Mae Buerkle

September 21, 1932 – September 19, 2026

Darlene Mae Buerkle, age 93, of Wautoma, Wisconsin, passed away on September 19, 2026, just two days shy of her 94th birthday.

Darlene was born on September 21, 1932, in Beloit, Wisconsin, to Frank and Florence Wolf. On August 29, 1953, she married Joseph Buerkle, and together they built a life centered around family.

Darlene was the proud mother of six children: Dennis (Janice) Buerkle, Edward (Sheralyn) Buerkle, Thomas (Lesley) Buerkle, Patricia Arndt, Joseph Buerkle, and Mary (David) Jensen. Her family continued to grow throughout the years, blessing her with 18 grandchildren and 51 great-grandchildren. Her large family was an important part of her life and leaves behind generations to carry on her memory.

Darlene was a hardworking woman throughout her life. She spent 21 years employed at National Lock and also had a brief and memorable chapter driving a taxi. Her strong work ethic continued well into her later years. In her 80s, Darlene delivered the Buyers Guide in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin, for 10 years. She also delivered the Reminder in Friendship, Wisconsin, alongside her sister Marian, creating special memories together while they worked.

In her free time, Darlene enjoyed the simple pleasures that brought people together. She loved playing cards and board games, especially Yahtzee, and could often be found working on crossword puzzles or enjoying a game of bingo. She also enjoyed trips to the casino.

Darlene was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joseph Buerkle; her parents, Frank and Florence Wolf; her siblings, Robert, David, Marvin, and Marian; and her grandson, Joseph.

She leaves behind a remarkable family legacy through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Darlene’s memory will live on in the many lives she touched and in the countless family memories created throughout her 93 years.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her family and all who knew her.

A Funeral Ceremony will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, September 25, 2026 in McCorkle Funeral Home - Durand Chapel, 101 W. Main St., Durand, IL with Pastor Edward Buerkle officiating. A visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, September 24, 2026 at the Funeral Home. Burial in St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery, Durand.