Darlene Joan Yonker

Mrs. Darlene J. Yonker, 93, of DeWitt, Iowa, and formerly Marshall, Minnesota, died early Monday morning, August 24, 2026, at Maggie’s House Assisted Living, DeWitt.

The former Darlene Joan Lemburg was born October 8, 1932, at Holstein, Iowa, to Herbert Wilhelm and Margearette Kathleen Minnie (Hoops) Lemburg.  Darlene was raised by her step-father, Orville Glenn Wirt.  She attended school in Lake Benton, Minnesota, graduating from Lake Benton High School in 1950.  In high school, Darlene met the love of her life, Leonard LeRoy Yonker a Navy Veteran.   They were married October 8, 1950, at the Peace Evangelical and Reformed Church in Elkton, South Dakota.  Following their marriage, the couple moved to Hayward, Wisconsin, where Leonard worked for the telephone and electric companies.  While residing in Hayward, the couple were blessed with a daughter, Kathy Lu.  In 1952 the family moved to Luverne, Minnesota, and 1954 to Marshall, Minnesota, where they resided for many years.  Darlene was employed by Coast to Coast Hardware Store and JC Penny until retirement.    In retirement Darlene and Leonard moved to New Franklin, Missouri, in 1988 where they resided for eight years.  In 1996 they returned to the Marshall area, residing in Milroy, Minnesota.  Leonard preceded Darlene in death June 22, 2016.  In 2018, Darlene moved to DeWitt to be closer to her daughter and family.  

Darlene enjoyed flea marketing, traveling the United States and visiting friends.  

Her family includes, her daughter and son-in-law, Kathy and Bill Stahmer of Long Grove, Iowa; her granddaughter, Sara Stahmer of Muldrow, Oklahoma; her sister, Connie Storjohann of New Franklin, Missouri; nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband and parents, Darlene was preceded in death by her brother, Garry Wirt.

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at Fort Snelling National Cemetery, Minneapolis, Minnesota.  

Darlene's daughter, Kathy would like to extend her most sincere appreciation to the Maggie's House Assisted Living.  You are all treasured greatly and your love, wonderful care and kindness will never be forgotten.   

Arrangements are in the care of Ackerman Funeral Directors & Cremation Service.  (563) 659-8574.