On July 25, 1931 a daughter, Darlene Mae was born to Hans Eskil and Edna Josephine (Reynolds) Hansen in rural Shenandoah, Iowa.  Darlene entered into eternal peace on October 13, 2022 in Red Oak, Iowa at the blessed age of 91 years.

Darlene was born and raised in the community of Shenandoah.  She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Shenandoah where she was baptized.    Following her graduation from high school, she remained in Shenandoah where she would later raise her family.  Darlene was united in marriage to Eldon Pritchett.  This marriage was blessed with the birth of three children; Sharon, Gary and Patricia Ann.   Darlene worked for Shenandoah Printing/World Publishing for over 42 years.  She also owned and operated the Shenandoah Rooming House.  She was a hard working and dedicated employee who knew the ins and outs of the business.  At one time, she also owned over 23 rental houses in Shenandoah.  She was a hands-on landlord  who enjoyed improving the properties that she owned.   She was united in marriage to Dewey Carpenter and the couple made their home in Red Oak for the final 18 years of Darlene's life.  She was in the process of moving back to Shenandoah prior to her passing.

Darlene was a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Time spent with her family brought her much joy.  Yearly trips with her grandchildren to the Rodeo were always a highlight.  She enjoyed listening to country music, dancing, watching John Wayne movies and tending to her flowers.  She was an avid animal lover, and adopted many animals from local shelters over the years.  She had a huge heart.  She was also a member of the Shenandoah and Red Oak Eagles Club and a lifetime member of AMVETS.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husbands Eldon Pritchett, Glen Binns,  Raymond Kirchert and Dewey Carpenter and grandsons Christopher Laire and Joe Weydert.  Those left to cherish her memory include her children Sharon Hayes, Gary Pritchett and Patricia Ann (Doug) Laire; grandchildren Craig Hayes, Carrie Hayes, Kyle Hayes and twin granddaughters Jillian Hayes and Jocelyn (Mike) Manley, Shannon Pritchett, Steven Pritchett, Christina (Kaylon) McClain, Cory (Ted) Copeland and Jeremy McComb (fiance Victoria Kimbro); step-grandson Corey (Heather) Laire; 27 great-grandchildren; 6 great-great grandchildren; half brother Ronald Hansen; step brothers Ardel Bueker, Arthur Bueker, and Gerald Bueker; sister-in-law Donna (Bill) Novak; brother-in-law Bernie (Jerrie) Binns; other relatives and many friends.