Darlene Snyder

Dates

Obituary

Darlene Snyder, 68, of Mitchell, SD, died Monday, December 27, 2021, at Avera Queen of Peace Hospital in Mitchell. Funeral services will be 1:30 PM Monday, January 3, 2022, at Bittner Funeral Chapel. Burial will be at Valley View Cemetery in Rock Valley, IA. Arrangements by Bittner Funeral Chapel.

Our lives are blessed when they collide with a soul as spirited, fun-loving, and kind as Darlene Joyce Snyder. Darlene was quick in wit and seemingly endless in her determination and strength. A bundle of fire and steam, that could be swapped for a tender hug. Darlene passed away on December 27, 2021, forever we shall remember her spirit and hug.

Darlene was born in Long Beach, California on April 3, 1953, to Frank and Tena (Fuerst) Snyder. Two sisters, Bonnie and Cindy would join the family after. Darlene lived in California for the younger years of her life.   In the early 1970s, after the passing of her father, Darlene joined her mother and lived on a farm in Hanson County, South Dakota.  

In 1984, Darlene began receiving services from the Mitchell Area Adjustment Training Center (LifeQuest). Here, she would set off on numerous adventures and touch the hearts of many. One of Darlene’s most cherished things to do was caring for her dogs- especially Shaggy and Spot, she held them close, and they gave each other great comfort. Her faith was important to her, she was a member of the Zion Lutheran Church. In February of 1998 after attending several classes, she received a Certificate of Confirmation and was Baptized.  

Darlene loved giving to others, wanting to buy birthday or holiday presents for others, and sending greeting cards. She loved to hold babies and make blankets for newborns. Her compassion to give led to the opening of her business, Darlene’s Balloon Saloon, in 1987. Darlene’s heart was golden, always wanting to say a prayer for others, especially if they were not feeling well.

Darlene enjoyed spending time with her dear friend Carla. They would go out to eat, do a little shopping, and spend time together on birthdays and holidays. She also looked forward to visits from her sister Cindy and brother-in-law Chad, again, going out to eat and shopping were her favorite. She always enjoyed hearing about any family news of a wedding or a newborn baby.

Darlene possessed a strong sense of the power of persuasion, be that through the series of questions or requests, she listened for the answer in which she sought. If not there, her next words were, oh come on… or, perhaps a new request. Darlene loved going to concerts, the State Fair, shopping or anywhere that brought a bit of excitement to the day, especially if Burger King or Mcdonald's was a part of the plan.

As Darlene leaves us with a heart full of memories, please remember these words she would say in passing…. Goodbye and God Bless You.

Blessed to be holding her in their presence on earth today is her special friend, Carla Snedeker; sisters, Cindy (Chad) Gosch, Hawarden, IA, Bonnie Maxwell, Dobbins, CA; many nieces, nephews, and extended family; special friend Vera; and the numerous friends and family of LifeQuest, the Zion Lutheran Church,  the Mitchell Community.

Darlene is preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Tena Snyder.

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