Darlene Lafky, age 86, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at St. Anne’s Extended Healthcare in Winona, MN.
Darlene was born on July 10, 1940, in Winona, MN, to Everett and Vera Northrup. She graduated from Winona High School and, in 1959, married the love of her life, Daryl Lafky. Together, they built a life centered around their family, their farm, and the community they loved.
Darlene devoted her life to her family and the farm, taking great pride in the hard work and simple pleasures that made life meaningful to her. She loved working in her garden, canning what she grew, cooking and baking, fishing, spending time outdoors, feeding and watching birds from the sunroom, and tending to her flowers. The farming community was an important part of Darlene’s life, providing lifelong friendships and many cherished memories. She also had a love for country music and especially enjoyed dancing with her beloved Daryl. Above all, Darlene will be remembered for her kindness, warmth, and the genuine care she showed to everyone around her.
Darlene is survived by her husband, Daryl; children, Kerrie (Mike) Pieper, Karla (Curt) Baer, and Kevin (LuAnn) Lafky; grandchildren, Lynn (AJ), Kyle, Brian, Mika, and Amanda (Hunter); and her sister, Sherrie Rine.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Everett and Vera Northrup.
A Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Hoff Celebration of Life Center, 3480 Service Drive, Winona, MN, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. Darlene will be laid to rest at Frank Hill Cemetery.
Hoff Celebration of Life Center is assisting the family.
FOLLOW US FOR INSTANT UPDATES!
