Darlene Esther Franke

January 30, 1940 - March 25, 2025

St. John Ev. Lutheran Church (Mayville)

450 Bridge St

Mayville, WI 53050

Thursday 4/3, 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm

St. John Ev. Lutheran Church (Mayville)

450 Bridge St

Mayville, WI 53050

Thursday 4/3, 2:00 pm

Darlene Esther Franke, aged 85, of Mayville, Wisconsin, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at Hope Health and Rehabilitation in Lomira.

Funeral services for Darlene will be held on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 2:00 PM at St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church in Mayville officiated by Rev. Dr. Mark G. Cutler. Visitation will take place at the church from 12:00 PM until the service begins at 2:00 PM. Following the service, inurnment will take place at St. John’s Cemetery in Mayville.

Born on January 30, 1940, to Alfred and Elsie (Schmidt) Muche in Mayville. Darlene graduated from Mayville High School in 1958. She married Marvin Franke on April 25, 1959, at Zum Kripplein Christi Lutheran Church.

Darlene worked for 40 plus years at Mayville Metal as a spot welder and factory nurse. She took great pride in her impeccable attendance throughout her career. She was a faithful member of St. John Ev. Lutheran Church. She enjoyed many activities, including visiting the casino, playing bingo, and cheering for her beloved Milwaukee Bucks.

For 58 years, Darlene cherished her country home, relishing the time spent with her family. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were her pride and joy, and she was always their biggest supporter at events and activities. Darlene also found joy in baking and sharing her favorite treats, particularly her renowned Red Velvet Cake, Rice Krispie Bars, and Yummy Bars. The holidays were especially special as she loved baking with her grandchildren.

Darlene is survived by her loving children: Cindy (Larry) Margelofsky, Scott Franke, and Robin (Shannon) Niccum; grandchildren: Lara (Natalie) Disney, Brock Margelofsky, Sarah (Keegan) O’Hearn, Matt (Katelyn) Franke, Kassie (Robby) Schultz, Alex (Katie) Franke, Kayla (Kyle) Picha, Collin Niccum, and Kelcy Niccum; great-grandchildren: Kholten, Finn, Knox, Rye, Paisley, Payton, and Rowan; her sister: Karen Rediske; and sisters-in-law: Sandra Muche and Diana Muche, along with numerous other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, and brothers.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt appreciation to the staff at Hope Health and Rehab Center and St. Croix Hospice for their exceptional care and support.

St. John Ev. Lutheran Church (Mayville)

450 Bridge St

Mayville, WI 53050

Map

Thursday 4/3, 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm

St. John Ev. Lutheran Church (Mayville)

450 Bridge St

Mayville, WI 53050

Map

Thursday 4/3, 2:00 pm

Darlene Esther Franke, aged 85, of Mayville, Wisconsin, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at Hope Health and Rehabilitation in Lomira. Funeral services for Darlene will be held on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 2:00 PM at St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church in Mayville officiated by Rev. Dr. Mark G. Cutler. Visitation willContinue Reading

See Condolences

Condolences to the family. As I read the obituary in the Mayville paper, I too see in the same paper, in the Page from the Past section dated April 6, 1995, where she is commended with a plaque and clock for 25 years of perfect attendance at Mayville Metal.
Apparently already well aware of time -
Well done Mrs. Franke.

Kassie & family - thinking of you all during this difficult time. Sending you love and hugs!

Sweet Tranquility Basket was purchased for the family of Darlene Franke by Megan & Courtney. Send Flowers

Kassie Schultz + Franke Family,From soccer games to get-togethers, we have many happy memories of Darlene. Thinking of you all during this time.

Spring Has Sprung Mixed Basket was purchased for the family of Darlene Franke by The Cordry, Smallish + Kiser Families. Send Flowers

Sending our deepest sympathies to your family at this difficult time. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Medium Dish Garden was purchased for the family of Darlene Franke by Anonymous. Send Flowers

Scott and Family- So sorry for your loss. With deepest sympathy,All of us at Landmark Landscapes

Florist's Choice Bouquet was purchased for the family of Darlene Franke by Anonymous. Send Flowers

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Alex, Katie, and family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. May you find comfort in the days ahead from your special memories.

Treasured Lilies Spray was purchased for the family of Darlene Franke by Your Friends at the Pentagon (2A726). Send Flowers

We are sorry about the passing of your mom. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this sad time. Sending you all our love,

Heavenly and Harmony was purchased for the family of Darlene Franke by Tammy Gillis and Team. Send Flowers

A tree was also planted in memory of Darlene Franke

Rest in peace Darlene.

I am a cousin of Darlenes. Had many good times when we were young. Sorry for your loss.

My deepest sympathy.

I share in your families loss. I worked with Darlene many years at the paper. We shared stories of family, Christmas baking and so much laughter. She was truly one of the best ❤️

I remember the first time I have ever met her she was the most kindest, caring, loving person I ever met (I met her during the time where I was in a very dark place where I really didn't want to be here anymore.) She asked me how are you? and I said ok I guess and she said nice encouraging words and reminding me God was always there even when we dont see Him and before she left she said I will be praying for you. I will always remember that. As she started to walk away she said I hope we get to meet again.

Darlene was a wonderful friend to my Mom and she was a fun person to be around. She and Marvin visited me in Florida and we went to Tampa to watch the Packers. What a great memory. Hugs to the family.

My deepest sympathies.

Beautiful in Blue was purchased for the family of Darlene Franke by Diana Muche. Send Flowers

A tree was also planted in memory of Darlene Franke

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.