Darlene June Carper

Darlene June Carper, 81, of Marion, Indiana, passed away peacefully surrounded by family at 1:00 pm on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis. She was born on April 25, 1944, in Elmira, Michigan, to Gerald and Ardith (Bush) Gates.

On September 15, 1962, Darlene married the love of her life, Ronald (Ron) D. Carper, who survives. Together they shared 63 wonderful years of marriage.

Darlene devoted herself to her family as a homemaker. She was an active member of The Garden Club of Marion and found joy in gardening, attending car shows, and showcasing classic cars with Ron. Above all, Darlene cherished her family and friends, always making time to create lasting memories with those she loved.

She is survived by her husband, Ron Carper; children, Duane (Lori) Carper, Christine (Doug) Batton, and Michael Carper; grandchildren, Tasha (David Lund) Garcia, Michael (Katie) Garcia, Courtney (Jonathan) Haley, Taylor (Casey) Potts, Madison (Logan) Yordanich, and Alyssa Batton; six great-grandchildren; siblings, Marion Zuercher, Lois Solthysiak, Paul Gates, LaVern Gates, and Robert Gates; and many nieces and nephews.

Darlene was preceded in death by her parents, Gerald and Ardith Gates; brother, Wilfred Gates; and sister, Shirley Carper.

A Celebration of Life gathering will be held at Grace Community Church, 1810 E. Bradford Pike, Marion, IN, on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 12:00 noon.

Arrangements are entrusted to Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.

Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.