Darlene D. (Rausch) Began, 90, of Marengo, died peacefully, November 19, 2022.
Darlene was born September 25, 1932 in Marengo, Illinois the daughter of Ernest and Elsie (Dorow) Piske. She worked for Marengo Foundry and later for the Marengo Library. She was always active in her Church. She served in several volunteer roles for many years at First Presbyterian Church of Marengo and during the winter months at Church of the Master Presbyterian in Arizona.
Darlene was an avid bird watcher, reader, traveler, and huge sports fan, especially of the Chicago Cubs. She never missed an event involving any one of her children. She encountered obstacles throughout her life but always overcame them with a cheerful outlook. She had a strong love of God and family and was very devoted to both. Darlene was a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt, and friend who will be missed by all who knew her. She was very happy to be a central figure in the lives of her children and anyone who knew them knew that she was a star in their eyes. That really mattered to her.
She is survived by her children, Cathy Dixon, Jack (Kathy) Rausch and Jim (Christine) Rausch, by her step children Dan (Karen) Began, Kevin (Holly) Began, Tim (Sharon) Began, Pam (Bob) Wyman, Eileen (Dick) Walsh, Keith (Cindi) Began, by her grandchildren, Jeffrey (Stacy) Suzanne (Jess), Jennica (Blake) and Jacob by her great grandchildren, Natalie Grace, and Perry Jo, step grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
Darlene was preceded in death by her husband, James, her siblings, Arthur, Edward, Melvin (Mike), Bernice, a son, Douglas, and by her son-in-law, Don Dixon.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to First Presbyterian Church, 10236 North 83rd Avenue, in Peoria, Arizona, 85345.
A memorial service will be held both in-person at First Presbyterian Church of Peoria, AZ and online via Zoom on Sunday, Dec. 11 at 2 p.m. (noon Eastern, 1 p.m. Central). To join Zoom on a computer, click this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/4684766473
The Meeting ID is 468 476 6473, and the Password is 087 707. To join by landline phone, dial 1-888-788-0099 and enter the Meeting ID followed by #.
Interment of ashes will take place at a date to be determined in the summer of 2023 at the Marengo Cemetery in Marengo, IL.
For further information please contact the funeral home at 847-515-8772 or online condolences may be directed to www.defiorefuneral.com
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We are offering our deepest and sincere condolences on your loss. Darlene was an amazing woman. You are in our thoughts and prayers.