Darlene M. Block, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on Thursday, July 25, 2024, at the age of 83 in Maquoketa, Iowa. Born on July 12, 1941, in rural Cedar County, Iowa, Darlene was the daughter of Vernon LeRoy and Lois Jane (Crocker) Comer. She grew up in the close-knit community of Stanwood, Iowa, where she developed a strong work ethic delivering newspapers in grade school and showcased her athletic talents on the school basketball court.

After graduating from Stanwood Consolidated High School, Darlene pursued further education at Iowa Technical School in Ottumwa, where she received training in computer programming. Her career began with a brief tenure at a local bank, but she soon found her niche at Clinton Engines in Maquoketa. It was there that she met the love of her life, Charles D. “Chuck” Block. The couple exchanged vows on December 17, 1966, in Rock Island, Illinois and Darlene embraced her role as a homemaker.

A woman of many interests and talents, Darlene was a member of the American Daughters of the Revolution. Her passion for politics was evident in her unwavering support for the Republican party. She devoted countless hours to political causes and cherished the memories captured in photographs with various presidential candidates. Darlene’s competitive spirit shone through in her love for bowling, and she was a familiar face in several area bowling leagues, where she dearly enjoyed both the sport and the camaraderie.

Darlene’s legacy is carried on by her loving family, who will forever cherish her memory. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Michelle L. Block and Robert Nelson of Zionsville, IN; her son, William Drumbarger of Nashville, TN; her adored grandchildren, Will Drumbarger, Allen Drumbarger, and Tasha Happs; and her treasured great-grandchild, Cassie Bruesch. She also leaves behind her siblings, Bill (Ann) Comer, LaSonda Sipe, Barb (Loren) Rice, and Patricia Schroeder, as well as her brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Eugene “Doodee” and Dianna Block of Maquoketa, IA.  Preceding her in death were her husband, her parents, her beloved son Wayne, and her sister Caroline Bertling.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Thursday, August 1, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 10 A.M. to 11:15 A.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa, followed by a reception and lunch at the Timber Center from 1 to 3 P.M.

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