CHESTER – Darlene E. Dierks, 85, of Chester, passed away Wednesday, May 18, 2022, at Three Springs Lodge, Chester, IL.

Darlene was born July 19, 1936, in Percy, IL, to William and Bertha (Hornbostel) Rubach. She married Leonard A. Dierks on August 29, 1953, in Steeleville, IL. Darlene was retired from Steeleville High School Café. She was a member of St. Mark's Lutheran Church, Steeleville, IL, and the Ladies Auxiliary, BBK American Legion Post 480, Steeleville, IL. Darlene was very active in her church and school committees. She enjoyed traveling with family and friends, and the activities she shared with everyone.

Darlene is survived by her husband, Leonard Dierks of Chester, IL, children: Barbara (Mike) Stearns of Makanda, IL, Alan (Carrie) Dierks of Steeleville, IL, Terry Dierks of Morton, IL; eight grandchildren: Jeremy Alms, Travis Dierks, Andrea Mevert, Eric Ehlers, Emilie Wallace, Austin Dierks, Amilia Dierks, Alex Dierks; and eight great grandchildren.

Darlene is preceded in death by her parents, five brothers and two sisters.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am, Tuesday, May 24, 2022, at St. Mark's Lutheran Church, Steeleville, with Rev. Mark Harriss officiating. Burial to follow at Paradise Cemetery, Steeleville. Visitation will be at St. Mark's Lutheran Church, where friends may call from 9 – 11 am. Memorials may be given to St. Mark's Lutheran Church and can be mailed to Wilson Funeral Home, P.O. Box 217, Steeleville, IL 62288. To sign the guestbook, visit www.wilsonsfuneralhome.net .