Darlene Lucille Huckenpoehler

Darlene L. Huckenpoehler, 82 of Watkins, passed away on Saturday August 24, 2024 at the Mother of Mercy nursing home in Albany, MN. Visitation will take place on Thursday, August 29, 2024 from 5-8PM at the St. Anthony Parish Center. Prayers will start at 8:00PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, August 30 at St. Anthony's Catholic Church at 10:30 AM with visitation 1 hour prior to the service at the parish center. Interment will be held at St. Anthony's Catholic Cemetery following the service. The service will be livestreamed at www.ertlfuneral.com

Darlene Lucille Huckenpoehler, the daughter of Phillip and Marcella (Winter) Hesse was born on January 7, 1942 at St. Cloud Hopsital in St. Cloud, MN. She was united in marriage to Erwin Huckenpoehler on May 19, 1962 in Watkins, MN at St. Anthony Catholic Church. Darlene started her career as a secretary for the Watkins Creamery. After marriage, she farmed alongside her husband and raised their 3 kids. When her kids grew older, she was employed as a CNA at the Hilltop nursing home in Watkins. She ended her career as a caregiver for 2 of her grandchildren. Darlene was a member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church and the American Legion Auxiliary. She enjoyed crocheting, reading, quilting, puzzles and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. 

Darlene is survived by her children John (Sue) of Watkins, Jim of Garner, IA and daughter Mary (Todd) Held of St. Cloud; three grandchildren Jordan Huckenpoehler, Brenna and Evan Held; one great-grandchild Ashton Huckenpoehler; sister Elaine (Stan) Welle of Watkins; brother Rich (Mary Ann) Hesse of Watkins.

She was preceded in death by her husband Erwin; parents Phillip and Marcella Hesse.

The family would like to thank the staff of Mother of Mercy, and St. Croix Hospice for the wonderful, gentle care and support they gave Darlene.