Darrel A. White

Darrel A. White, 66, of Galena, IL, passed away on Tuesday, September 9, 2025. A funeral service will be held at Noon on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena, where friends may gather after 10 AM until the time of the service. The burial will be held at a later date. Cremation rites have been accorded. He was born September 27, 1958, in Dubuque, IA, to Clinton and Elaine (Erner) White. The oldest of four children, he grew up with three sisters who loved to "keep him in line"-Karen, Joyce, and Mary Beth. A proud and hardworking man, Darrel devoted his life to the open road. He began his trucking career with Houtakker Implement in his early 20s and later joined Sara Lee Bakery in Dubuque in 1990. Never one to slow down, he built his own business while still working full-time, hauling everything from hay and farm equipment to oversized loads. For Darrel, trucking was more than a job-it was his passion. Among his favorite hauls were trips for his many Amish friends in Indiana, whose respect and friendship he deeply valued. Darrel also spent many years helping his father on the family farm in Galena and later purchased his own small farm in Hazel Green, where he enjoyed caring for animals. Those who knew Darrel will remember his dry humor, steady work ethic, and generous heart. He never shied away from lending a hand and found joy in simple independence, friendships, and life on the road. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished. He is survived by his mother, Elaine; sisters, Karen White, Joyce (John) Wills, and Mary Beth Hyde; nephews, Nick (Kelsey) Hyde and Alex Hyde; nieces, Megan (Cody Heuer) Wills and Stephanie (Trevor) Mullin; great-niece, Oaklynn Wills; great-nephew, Beau Hyde; aunts, Linda VanGordon and Dawn "Cookie" White; special friend, Sharon Snyder; and many cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, brother-in-law, Patrick Hyde; uncles, Tom, Jerry, and Terry White, Wayne VanGordon, LeRoy Fields, and RJ Spillane; and aunts, Sandy, Judy, and Kathy White, LaVonne Spillane, and Grace Fields. The family wishes to thank Mercy Hospital, Meriter Hospital, Hospice of Dubuque, and his personal nurse, Angie Curtis, for their excellent care and compassion during Darrel's illness. Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com