Darlene Kiehn
March 2, 1928 ~ April 7, 2015
Darlene Kiehn, age 87 of Plainfield, IA, passed away Tuesday, April 7, 2015.
Darlene Marjorie was born March 2, 1928, in Greene, Iowa, the daughter of Ford and Ruth (Downing) Jewell. She attended grade school in Manly and graduated from Greene High School in 1946. Darlene met Emmet Kiehn while on the homecoming court her senior year; he was driving her convertible in the parade. The couple was married on October 17, 1946, at the United Methodist Church in Greene. To this union five children were born. The family farmed in Butler County for many years before moving to Plainfield in 1972.
Darlene was a bookkeeper, homemaker, and daycare provider. The children she babysat were very special to her. She enjoyed baking, sewing, crocheting, playing cards, and the company of her bird, Tootles. For many years, Darlene and Emmet went camping on summer weekends near Hampton, IA. She had a regular coffee club with many others from the neighborhood. Darlene cherished the time she spent with her family and friends.
Darlene is survived by one son, Greg (Tammy) Kiehn of Plainfield, IA; three daughters: Julaine Kiehn of Columbia, MO, Sue (Paul) Jacobson of Waverly, IA, & Teri Weinberg of Cedar Falls, IA; one daughter-in-law: Leata Kiehn of Shelbyville, TN; six grandchildren: Michelle (Bill) Desmond & Amanda Shinn, Sarah (Scott) Schumann & Matthew Kiehn, Sheena Weinberg & Kendalle Alquwaie; six great-grandchildren; one great-great grandson; two sisters: Judy Holmes & Jeanene (Paul) Drahos; and three sisters-in-law: Sylvia Grekoff, Phyllis Jewell, & Shirley Jewell.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; son, Michael; two brothers, Russell & Donald Jewell; sister-in-law, Lavon Horn; and brother-in-law, Frank Holmes.
At Darlene’s request, a funeral ceremony will not be scheduled; a private family service will take place at a later date.
I will never forget Darlene! What a wonderful woman she was! From toothpick dinners to making homemade play-doh she always made things fun and memorable for the kids she babysat. Such a loving, caring person she was always there for you and was always so encouraging. She was like a grandmother to us – so much so that we always called her Grandma Darlene. The entire Campbell family is thinking and praying for you all and we will always cherish the time we had with her.
Darlene was a terrific lady we’ve enjoyed calling a friend for many years. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Our sympathy to her family~ Lee & Delores Peters
Bryan Mehmen lit a candle in memory of Darlene Kiehn
Emmet and darlene were great people n great friends teri my prayers with you n the family
Mrs. Kiehn was like another grandmother to me; she watched my brother and I while our parents were at work. She was so caring and patient. I associate many memories with Mrs. Kiehn even though I was so young. Davy Crockett in the living room, homemade bread and rolls, popcorn balls and cookies at Christmas, certain meals every day of the week, giant buggy rides across town to the library…Mrs. Kiehn was an amazing woman and I loved to go visit her when I could. There are few things more special than a Mrs. Kiehn hug. Her family was so important to her and she talked about them all the time. Parts of her are reflected in everyone that she touched. Words cannot due justice to remember such a compassionate woman. My prayers are with you all–I loved Mrs. Kiehn.
The Kiehns and Gersemas shared many good times together over the years as were chronicled in Louise’s photo albums. We will miss her. Hugs to you all. With our sympathy, Dave and Cindy
Sue- I keep you in my thoughts and prayers. The neighborhood and community has lost a good one.
She was a great lady and I always enjoyed talking to her. She will be greatly missed.
I want you to know your mom was the sweetest lady. We at school always enjoyed her goodies she would bring in and share. She not only shared her goodies she would share everything how the whole family was doing. She was very proud of everyone. You all are in our thoughts and prayers. Steve and Tami Sudol
Sorry for your loss. Darlene was our neighbor for 14 years. She was like a part of our family, too. She will be missed a lot! The Woodman Family
Deb Stastny lit a candle in memory of Darlene Kiehn
Leroy Kellner lit a candle in memory of Darlene Kiehn