Darlene Marie Clark, 86, formerly of Zwingle and Des Moines, Iowa, passed away from complications of an 8-year battle with cancer on Monday, June 23, 2025, at Grand Meadows in Asbury, Iowa.

Darlene was born on September 25, 1938 in rural Zwingle, Iowa to Clayton Francis and Evelyn Marie (Peoples) Clark.  She received degrees from the University of Northern Iowa and the University of Iowa.

Darlene affected countless lives with her many years and positions in public service working for the State of Iowa.  She retired from her position as a Juvenile Justice Program manager in 2006.

Darlene met her future husband while they were both advocating for social justice at a protest.  She married Reverend Harold Butz in 1974.  There were no children born to this union.

Darlene enjoyed gardening, visiting with her family, Sudoku puzzles, and researching family genealogy.

Those left to honor her memory include a brother, Larry “Butch” (Carol) Clark of Zwingle, IA; sister, Betty (Tom) Streets of Scotch Grove, IA; a very special sister-in-law, Carolyn (Neil) Morehead of Maquoketa, IA; and 22 nieces and nephews that she loved like her own children.  She was preceded in death by her parents, Clayton and Evelyn, husband Rev. Harold Butz, brothers Robert and Roger, sisters Lois Elkins, Ruth Siegel and LaVonne Morehead, nieces Janet Lee Morehead and Jan Ellen Morehead, and nephew Tom Elkins.

At Peace Cremation Services have been provided by Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  There will be no public services.  A private family gathering will be held at a later date.  Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa.

The family wishes to thank all the beautiful people at Oak Park Place, Dubuque, Grand Meadows, Asbury, and St. Croix Hospice for their loving care.

Online Condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.