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Darlene Graves
1926 - 2014
Darlene Graves
1926 - 2014
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1926
DIED
2014
Darlene Graves Obituary
Darlene Josephine Graves of Sioux Falls died of natural cases on Sunday, October 12, 2014.
A naturally sweet and caring person, Darlene was friendly and outgoing to all and possessed a deep and abiding love for her family. She and her husband Joseph had a 60-year marriage, were devoted to each other and inseparable until his death.
Darlene was born December 7, 1926 near Ashton, Iowa, of George and Hilda Thom.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph and her son, James Joseph, her parents and her brother, Peter. She had five son, James, who is deceased; Thomas (Karen) of Des Moines, Iowa; William (Cathy) of Bemidji, Minnesota; Gregory (Deanna) of Stilwell, Kansas; and Joseph (Cheryl) of Mitchell. Her boys have always been sure she was the best and most loving mother they could possibly have had. All of them secretly believed they were her favorite.
Darlene had 16 grandchildren, Kelly, Daniel, James, Carrie, Robert, Katelyn, Nick, Allison, Nikita, Jessica, Kristin, Gregory, Jr., Catherine, Joseph III, Alexander, and Madeleine; fourteen great grandchildren with another on the way.
Before marrying, Darlene worked as a secretary for Osceola County, Iowa. After marrying Joseph, she spent much of her life as a mother and homemaker. When her boys were mostly raised, she went to work at Harvey Dunn School as a library aide, a career she continued for several years and dearly loved. She talked fondly always of the young students to whom she read favorite books. In later years, she volunteered at Avera McKennan Hospital.
A devout Catholic, along with her husband she was a founding member of St. Lambert's Parish in Sioux Falls. She was an avid reader, played bridge and enjoyed travel. She had a great many friends in Sioux Falls, all of whom her family thanks for their friendship, assistance and support in these later years. Her greatest joy was her children and grandchildren. She loved and enjoyed her daughters-in-law. She looked forward to meeting and holding each of her great grandchildren.
A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for 10:00 AM Wednesday, October 15, 2014 at St. Lambert Catholic Church in Sioux Falls with burial to follow at St. Michael Cemetery. Family present visitation will begin at 5:00 PM on Tuesday at St. Lambert Catholic Church with a Liturgical Wake Service to follow at 7:00 PM.
An online registry and guestbook is available at www.georgeboom.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
October 29, 2014
Loved having your mom work with me as aide to our students at Harvey Dunn. We were together in the Gold Cluster. She was a wonderful example to all of us. As we were traveling at time of your moms passing, I just found out. Also loved working with your dad for two years at the park and rec. He was head of the playground and l was his asst. I believe Billy was the son he brought with him to the playground most days. Wonderful memories of both your parents. Judy Nielsen (Breitag) Johansen.
October 17, 2014
I remember Darlene fondly as the friendly neighborhood lady whose son, Greg, was the same age. I am pleased that I saw her this summer when I was in Sioux Falls and had a chance to have a couple of conversations with her.
October 15, 2014
May you be comforted in prayer during this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you. LeeAnn Overbay
Fenske Family
October 15, 2014
Thoughts and prayers with you all.
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Jessica Ralston
October 14, 2014
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
David & Debbie Garton
October 14, 2014
Heartfelt prayers to the family.
Angela Fitzgerald
October 13, 2014
I remember Mrs. Graves from when I went to Harvey Dunn, she was always on of favorite people. I will keep your family in my prayers.
Jerry Andrews
October 13, 2014
I AM SHOCKED! DARLENE WAS MY PRAYER ON THE ST. LAMBERT PRAYER CHAIN. WHAT A WONDERFUL, HOLY, LOVING WOMAN. WE WILL MISS HER DEEPLY.
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3408 East 10th Street, Sioux Falls, SD 57103
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