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Darren J Lightner
Darren J Lightner
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Darren J Lightner, 56, passed away in Urbandale, Iowa on November 9, 2022. Darren was born in Syracuse, NY to Tracy and Leona Lightner. The family moved to Davenport after his birth where he graduated from North Scott High School in Eldridge, IA.
During his high school years, he excelled in academics, wrestling, and played the trumpet. North Scott is where he gained his lifelong friendships with Chris McCammant and Mike Sissel. After graduation, he attended Iowa State University where he met Stacie. After graduation, they were married and started their family in Urbandale with Lindsay and Lauren.
Darren was an avid cook and participated in chili cooking contests where he was awarded first and second place in consecutive years. Da' Bomb was his spice of choice, a gift from his Mom. Darren spent his Saturday's and Sunday's cheering on his favorite yellow and red teams, Iowa State Cyclones and the Kansas City Chiefs. His taste in music changed over the years, although his love for The Beatles, The WHO, Pink Floyd, and other artists from the 70/80's was never lost and routinely listened to very loudly!
Darren was always a devoted father to his daughters and new grandson. He coached his daughters, Lindsay and Lauren, in softball and volleyball. As a family we traveled the state with softball in the spring and fall; many memories were made on the road. He was a favorite coach with all their friends/teammates making everything fun while they learned the sport. Every July 4th, the girl's teams were in the Urbandale parade. The teams would use his truck as a float, decorating it with window paint, balloons, and signs.
He was preceded in death by his father, Tracy of Florida; former in-laws, Jim and Donna O'Callaghan. Left to mourn his passing are his mother, Leona of Iowa; siblings, Damon and Durene; former wife, Stacie Schnasa (Harold); daughters, Lindsay Lightner and Lauren Carley (Nick); Lindsay's son, Darren's first grandchild, Elias Callaghan Brown; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Cremation rites have been accorded and no services will be held at this time. Online condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com.
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