Darlene Palmer Kipers
December 4, 1943 – October 21, 2024

Darlene Kipers, or as she was fondly known by her family, "Oma" or "Aunt Dari", passed away unexpectedly at her home on October 21, 2024. Leaving behind an unfillable void, a well-worn Bible, and a kitchen filled with the smell of recipes no one can quite replicate. Darlene was born in Frederick, Oklahoma on December 4, 1943 and was one of seven siblings, all born and raised in the Palmer household under the steady hand of her parents, Leonard and Fern.

In her senior year, Darlene met the love of her life, James "Jim" Kipers, and high school sweetheart. They married in October 1962, and began a lifelong adventure that included two wonderful daughters, Jamie and Stacie. Darlene worked as a US postal clerk and kept the letters moving for 25 years, treating each envelope with the same care she showed to everyone she met.

A devoted Christian, Darlene's life was a testament to her faith.  She was known for helping anyone in need, often armed with a pot roast, a prayer, and a peptalk that left you believing you could take on the world. She hosted countless holiday gatherings, and was the heart and soul of every celebration. Darlene and Jim's home was also the center of fun for their grandchildren who remember sleepovers at Oma's house as some of their best childhood memories.  After Jim's passing, she found renewed joy with her great grandchildren, who could always count on her loving arms. To them she was not only Oma, but a guiding light sharing her boundless love and life lessons in ways only she could. Together they were her pride and joy and each one knew that Oma's house was their safe Haven.

Though she's now rejoined many of her family members, including her parents, four of her siblings, Della Jacobson, Bette Henson, David Palmer, Geraldine "Gerri" Allison, and her dear husband Jim- she leaves behind her beloved sister, Corine, and her brother Leonard, who will surely miss her fiery spirit.

Darlene's Legacy lives on through her daughters, Jamie Bacon and Stacie Wall, her grandchildren, Jordan Anderson, Melissa and Rocky Wall, Lauren Timboe and her cherished great grandchildren, Hunter and Kiaya Anderson, Abbiegail Dillon along with Charlee and Tegan Timboe. Each carrying a piece of her heart and infamous sweet tooth.

Though Darlene's absence leaves an ache in the hearts of many, her spirit lives on in the kindness she showed to others and the faith that guided her every step. Heaven has gained a remarkable soul and she will be deeply missed here on earth.

Rest well Oma, you've earned it.