Darlene Ann Cunningham, 72, of Petersburg, passed away July 6, 2023 with her family by her side at Memorial Hospital in Jasper, IN. She was born May 15, 1951 to the late Urban and Bertha (Englert) Buechlein in Jasper, IN. She graduated from Jasper High School Class of 1969. Darlene devoted many years as a homemaker to her family and caregiver to her children. She served as a secretary for Redeemer Lutheran Church and as a mental health technician for Southern Hills Counseling Center in Jasper before settling down to enjoy life in 2002. Darlene most enjoyed spending time with her kids and “grands”. She loved to help others any way she could even if it was just to lend a listening ear. She spoke words of encouragement and loved others deeply, never meeting a stranger. Earlier in life she enjoyed running after her kids, gardening, and going for walks. She enjoyed shopping, beautiful weather while out on her deck, keeping in touch with friends on social media, and her ‘shows’.
Darlene is survived by her son, Chad (Mendi) McClellan of Petersburg; daughter, Amy (Josh) Venters of Loogootee; her “grands”, Sydnee Nolan, Alaina McClellan, Joshua (Jazmyne), Luke, Hannah, and Jake Venters; great grand, Roman Venters; brother, Ronnie (Mag) Buechlein of Jasper; sister, Carol Maxey of Huntingburg; and sister-in-law, Judy Buechlein.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Denny Buechlein and Jim Buechlein; and brother-in-law, Daryl Maxey.
In accordance with Darlene’s wishes for cremation a Celebration of Life Service will take place at 2 PM EST on Tuesday, July 11, at Harris Funeral Home in Petersburg, IN with visitation from 12 PM EST until service time. Pastor Ron Ficklin is entrusted with care. Harris Funeral Home is entrusted with care.
