We lost a bright light on earth but gained a brilliant star in heaven on Friday January 26, 2024. Darlene Marie Kiester passed peacefully surrounded by her family at Sheridan Memorial Hospital.

She was born to Frank and Teresa Forster on December 19, 1936, in Spokane, Washington. The family moved to Richardton, North Dakota in 1942 where she attended grade and high school at St. Mary’s School. Darlene continued her education at Sacred Heart Nursing School in Yankton, South Dakota. She moved to Sheridan and worked as a RN at the VA Hospital. For the next 34 years she dedicated her career to the lives of many Veterans suffering with PTSD.

Darlene married Richard (Dick) Kiester on June 24, 1960, at Holy Name Catholic Church in Sheridan Wyoming. In 1961 their first child Dawn was born followed by Deena in 1962, Debby in 1964 and Darin in 1965. Although they later divorced, she and Dick remained close. She was very involved with her children’s schooling, volunteering in the classroom, lunchroom and after school activities. Darlene was their biggest cheerleader in life.

In retirement she kept busy with her volunteer work including Holy Name Catholic Church, Holy Name Thrift Store, Lunch Together Soup Kitchen and the St. Joseph Circle and CCW. She treasured her many years of weekly breakfasts with her “retired nurse” friends. Darlene enjoyed knitting and crocheting, traveling, movies, puzzles, playing scrabble and cards with her Heritage Tower neighbors/friends. Most of all she loved spending time with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. They brought her much joy!

Darlene was  preceded in death by her parents, her former husband Dick, brother Victor, sons-in-law Kenny and Jim. She is survived by her sisters Kate (Nick), Terry (Marv), and brothers Vernon, Harvey (Muriel) and Tim (Janice), along with numerous nieces and nephews. Daughters Dawn, Deena, Debby (Kevin) and Son Darin (Jill). Grandchildren Shaunna (Travis), Todd (Michelle), Kayla, Christina (Mike), Michael, Mitchell (Ashlee), Jacob (Chris). She was “GiGi” to 10 Great grandchildren.

Her caring and giving ways left an impact on everyone she met. Darlene lived her life for her faith, family and friends. Her unselfish way of life will always be admired.

A public viewing will be held on Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 10:00 am at Holy Name Catholic Church followed by Rosary 10:30 am. Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11:00 am followed by a reception. Interment will follow the reception in the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery Evergreen Section.

Donations can be made to Holy Name Catholic School or building fund in her memory to 121 S Connor St, Sheridan, WY 82801

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Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with local arrangements.

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