Darlene L. Mills

Darlene Laurie Mills, 78, passed away January 24, 2012 at her home. She was born October 3, 1933 to Erie and Irene Babbitt, in Couer D'Alene, ID. Darlene fought a long and courageous battle against cancer. Though her time on earth was fulfilling, she was looking forward to being with her Lord and Savior, whose strength kept her strong these past years. Darlene married Verlin M. Mills July 23, 1949, in Myrtle Creek, OR. They had six sons. Darlene loved being a homemaker. She had a great sense of humor and a resilience that few could match. Darlene was active in the St Matthew Lutheran Church of Tri City. She is survived by her husband Verlin, sons Verlin D. (Penny), Michael (Denise), Mark, Jeffrey, Scott, and daughter-in-law Patty Mills. She is also survived by 12 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, one great -great grandson, niece Susan Gaertner and nephews, Brian Babbitt, Brad Hardekoph, and her best friend Linda Dehn. Darlene was predeceased by her parents, son Daniel, grandchildren Corey Mills, Chase Mills and Amanda Mills, siblings Doug Babbitt and Patricia Hardekoph and nephew Greg Hardekoph. Services will be held at St Matthew Lutheran Church in Tri City on Monday, January 30th at 11:30am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cancer Society.