DARLENE SUSAN LINGRUEN (nee Delgaudio) age 67, of North Olmsted, Ohio died in the comfort of her home surrounded by her family on 18 February 2026.

Darlene was born in 1959 to Marlene and Bud Delgaudio in Fairbanks, Alaska. Moving shortly thereafter, she grew up in the Midwest and lived her life to the fullest in North Olmsted, Ohio. Darlene met the love of her life, Mark, in 1993 at Gold’s Gym. She was rocking 90s workout gear and working on her figure. Eventually, Mark worked up the guts and asked her out for a frosty. This was the beginning of a life-long adventure. Mark has been by her side for every struggle, every win, and every day of their 31 years of marriage. Together they built a home and a life full of love.

No matter who you were or whether she even knew you, she was going to tell you about her kids. Her life revolved around her children and being the best Mom possible. Genevieve, the one who made her a Mom, went off and joined the Air Force, added Craig to the family as her prized son-in-law, and made her a Grammy with the addition of Sophia. Her only boy, her baby boy, Ross, is a police officer and she was so proud of him, never missing an opportunity to showcase her police support, through hats, clothes, and even a tattoo. Amelia, kept her on her toes, never afraid to challenge her in the most loving ways, and continues to emulate her caring spirit through her dedication to mental health and work with children. Her youngest daughter, Lindsay with the support of Tom, spreads her love through creativity and artistic talents which Dar loved to showcase around the house.

Although Darlene wore many different hats, and not just ball caps, her absolute favorite was that of Grammy. She treasured her time with Sophia, coloring so many rainbow pictures, getting her nails and fingers painted, and reading to her in bed. Grammy always reminded Sophia that she “loves her big, big, big much” and we will never let her forget. She loved her grand-doggies, Ellie and Nora, beyond measure. Grammy baked them birthday cakes, ensured they were always comfy on the couch, and oh so loved. Poppy and Pepper, her grand-kitties, rounded out a heart full of love.

This love for furry and non-furry friends extended beyond her grand-fur-babies and was evident in how she cared for Rasco, Stray, and Suki. Rasco didn’t leave her side through the end. Sara, Oscar, Yoda, Sophie, and her grandpup, Sadie, were waiting at the Rainbow Bridge to welcome her with open paws.

Everyone and anyone who knew Darlene knew how much she loved to cook, bake, and candy-make. They also knew that she was amazing at it. Her treats were delightful, but you could never ask for the recipe. She didn’t know. She created while in the moment….and 97% of the time, that worked out incredibly.

Dar will always be remembered for the love and care she showed and the many ways in which she touched the hearts of those who knew her. She shared her love with a quick card, a text or meme, a thoughtful gift, or some sweet treats. She loved caring for those in Memory Care and Assisted Living, providing a helping hand, a listening ear, and using her light to make each resident feel special.

We couldn’t have asked for a better wife, mother, sister, aunt, or friend and will truly miss Darlene every single day. The world has lost a special lady, but her memory will continue to shine bright in the hearts of all those who love her.

Darlene was preceded in death by her parents, Marlene and Bud Delgaudio, and is survived by her husband, Mark; her children, Genevieve (Craig), Ross, Amelia, & Lindsay (Tom); her granddaughter, Sophia; her sisters, Linda (Brian) and Brenda; and her brother, Gary.

Funeral Service Saturday, February 21, at 3:00 PM. in the CHAMBERS FUNERAL HOME of NORTH OLMSTED, 29150 LORAIN RD. AT STEARNS where friends may call 1:00 PM. until time of service. A Celebration of Darlene’s life will be held at John Christ Winery, 32421 Walker Road, Avon Lake, OH 44012 immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Cleveland Animal Protective League (https://clevelandapl.org/general-donations/) or Project K-9 Hero (https://projectk9hero.org/pages/donate) would be greatly appreciated.