Alice "Darlene" Garey

Alice "Darlene" Garey, forever 89, of Downs, Ks, passed away Tuesday morning, August 15, 2023, at her family home with her husband by her side. Darlene was born on August 9, 1934, in Goff, Ks, to Martin and Minnie (Schoen) Berger. Darlene was one of five daughters born unto Martin and Minnie.

Darlene was a very loving wife and mother of five children. She was also a devoted grandmother to eleven grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren. Darlene was one of the world's sweetest souls, always offering a kind word to each and every person she encountered. Darlene truly enjoyed caring for her family, especially by cooking her delicious, home-cooked meals that all of the family delighted in sharing with her. Most of the time, she would tell everyone to exit the kitchen so she could continue cooking on her own. When family members went out to eat together with them, she would never allow anyone else to pay for the meals, and there was no way of winning that argument!  Darlene will forever be remembered for her fierce independence, incredibly kind heart, and gentle stubbornness. She didn't give up on anything easily, as her family and friends know all too well. She fought through a debilitating disease and multiple health issues over the years never complaining and always with a smile on her face. Her positivity was a beacon to her family. Darlene will be loved forever and missed immensely by all who knew her. Darlene had a passion for Estes Park in Colorado, and would visit as often as time would allow. As her disease progressed, she still enjoyed getting outdoors in the vehicle and enjoyed parking by the railroad tracks to watch the cars and people drive by. Darlene's children recall how she used to want to drive by all of her children's homes at night while they were driving around town.

Darlene met her husband, Marvin Garey, at the Berger home, at her invitation, in 1951. After their courtship, the two became united in marriage on February 20, 1953. Marvin can recall how much he admired Darlene's ability to roller skate and how she would glide around the floor. Their love grew over time, and the couple welcomed five children into their lives. Oldest child, Douglas, born in 1953, daughter, Deborah, born in 1957, still-born son, Dennis, 1960, son, Howard, in 1962, and youngest daughter, Betty, born in 1965. Darlene's family was her pride and joy and was always grateful for a visit, phone call, or even a text message.

After the children left the home, Darlene loved to work with the elderly at the Downs Nursing Center serving as a Social Services Director and Activities Director. The residents of the nursing home had the same love for her as well. Prior to and during this time, she was a farm wife who loved helping her family and taking meals to the fields during harvest time. After her retirement, Darlene was pleased to volunteer at the nursing home for years to come.

Darlene had many unique relationships that were built over the years. Though they were not, Darlene and sister, Bonnie, could have passed for twins, and shared a special bond. Darlene was known to write short poems in the local newspaper for Bonnie. After the sudden passing of her grandson, Quinn, she would do the same for him. Bonnie and Quinn were constantly in Darlene's thoughts.

Darlene is preceded in death by her infant son, Dennis, beloved grandson, Quinn Caldwell, father and mother, Martin and Minnie Berger, sisters Nancy Carl, Bonnie Reinert, and Betty Gray, and nephew, Mark Arnold, in-laws, George and Helen Garey,  and brother and sister-in-law's, Merle and Gloria Garey.

Darlene is survived by her loving husband, Marvin Garey, children, Douglas (Linda) Garey of Alta Loma, Ca, Deborah (Dick) Roberts of Beloit, Ks, Howard (Cindy) Garey of Downs, Ks, and Betty (Delmar) Thomas of Downs, Ks, her dear sister, Connie (Larry) Mertz of Mulvane, Ks, grandchildren, Nathan Foster of Lawrence, Ks, Shanell Garey of Devore, Ca, Clinton (Melinda) Foster of Salina, Ks, Sheena (Curt) Bokamper of Rialto, Ca, Kelsey (Andrew) Clark of Beloit, Ks, Brianne (Jonny) Brummer of Beloit, Ks, Riordan Caldwell of Downs, Ks, Raegan (Phil) Shamburg of Salina, Ks, Shawn Garey of Rancho Cucamonga, Ca, and Madison (Bobby) Bliss of Tipton, Ks, 15 great grandchildren, step grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Those who knew Darlene know that these words do not come close to what a wonderful, sensational woman she really was. She has left us all with a lasting legacy, filled with love, hope, strength and pure determination. Our angel on earth, now in heaven.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 AM Monday, August 21 at the Downs Christian Church. There will be no visitation, & the casket will remain closed. Memorials may be given to the Downs Senior Center or Agape Shop.