DARLENE HANDLIN

DARLENE HANDLIN Lindsborg, KS: Clara Darlene Handlin, of Lindsborg, KS, died on January 31, 2025, at the age of 89. Darlene was born on April 28,1935, to Arvid and Clara (Gahnstrom) Nelson of Bridgeport, KS. Darlene graduated from Assaria High School and Kansas State University. She married Ben Handlin in 1959, and together they had three children: Dr. Mark (Cathy) Handlin of McPherson, KS; Rachel (Mike Beert) Handlin of Rockford, IL; and Daryl (Stephanne Carson) Handlin of Albany, OR. Darlene was a proud grandmother of Mandi (Jake) Helmer and Aaron Handlin, Antonea and Allegra Carson, and Aria Beert. Darlene was able to meet her first great-grandchild, Walter Helmer, over the holidays. Darlene was close to her brothers, Jim (Marsha) Nelson of Lindsborg, KS and Wendell (Pam) Nelson of Princeton, IL. She was equally proud of her nieces and nephews and enjoyed their visits, phone calls and hearing about their accomplishments. Darlene taught elementary school for 31 years, most of that time as a fifth grade teacher at Soderstrom Elementary in Lindsborg, KS. At different points in her life, Darlene taught private piano lessons, and she was a longtime organist at Freemount Lutheran Church. Darlene especially enjoyed participating in her Swedish Friendship group, her retired teacher friend group, being a docent at the Birger Sandzen Memorial Art Gallery, and her many travels with her cousin, Betty Ludwig. Darlene was an active member of Bethany Lutheran Church as a volunteer and church council member. She is predeceased by her husband, Ben Handlin, and her parents, Arvid and Clara. Darlene's service will be held on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at 10:30 AM, at Bethany Lutheran Church in Lindsborg. A private graveside service will be held at Elmwood Cemetery, Lindsborg. Memorials in her name can be given to Bethany Lutheran Church or the Birger Sandzen Memorial Art Gallery in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460. Personal condolences may be sent to the family at www.stockhhamfamily.com.