Darlene I. Sandberg

1948 ∼ 2017

Darlene Jaffe-Sandberg, 69, of Kenosha, passed away unexpectedly at her home on Wednesday, December 27, 2017. She was born on April 13, 1948, to the late Lloyd and Carmella “Connie” (Gaudio) Jaffe in Chicago, IL. Darlene attended St. Mark’s School, and was a proud 1966 graduate of St. Joseph’s High School. She married her high school sweetheart, Don T. Sandberg at St. Mark’s on September 9, 1967. Dar discovered the accordion at the tender age of ten and spent countless hours entertaining her family and friends during the holidays. She would often distribute instruments such as maracas, tambourines and whistles in order to get the rest of the family to join along in her songs. In 1969, Dar and Don welcomed their first born, a daughter, Michele Lyn. Three years later they would welcome a son, Scott Lloyd. They also played a crucial role in the raising of their niece, Sarah Jaffe Sukus. Parenting came easy for the Sandberg’s, as they were very involved in each of their seven grandchildren’s lives. Darlene retired from the Kenosha County Child Support Agency in 2012. After her retirement she fulfilled a passion by volunteering with the KUSD Mentoring Program. She did what she set out to do, and that was to live a rich life. She loved her family, and swelled with pride with each of our individual accomplishments. Dar and Don celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary just this past September 9th with an Alaskan cruise. They loved to travel, and were fortunate to be able to share many casino trips together. This past year Darlene had the opportunity to write for the My Turn column in Kenosha News. Her final article was published on November 27, 2017, and it was titled, “Dancing into the Sunset.” Darlene is survived by her husband, and best friend of 50 years, Don Sandberg; children, Michele (Ted Jr.) Gianakos, Scott (Michelle) Sandberg, and Sarah (Peter) Sukus; her grandchildren, Zachary and Jenna Gianakos, Olivia Sandberg, Dade Theilman, Alexander Zanotti, and Christian and Sebastian Sukus; and nephew, Christopher Jaffe. She is further survived by her loving brother, Michael Jaffe, as well as a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Lloyd and Carmella. Visitation for Darlene will be held on Tuesday, January 2nd, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at St. Mark Catholic Church (7117-14th Avenue, Kenosha) with a service to follow at 1:00 p.m. Interment will be private. Darlene’s family invites you to a luncheon following the services.“To think I did all thatAnd may I say - not in a shy wayOh no, not me, I did it my way.”Proko Funeral Home and Crematory5111-60th StreetKenosha, WI 53144Phone: (262) 654-3533Visit & Sign Darlene's Online Memorial Book at:www.prokofuneralhome.com

Condolences

Sharin and Wayne Wernecke January 23, 2022
Just found this site, oh how I dearly loved Dar, she was an amazing person, everyone loved her spirit and kindness and caring. It's been years, now, and I miss her as much now as if it just happened, she was smart, funny, hilarious and we all miss her. Love to her family, prayers for peace.
R. Sabby January 11, 2018
I am deeply saddened to learn of your heartbreaking loss, Don. I’ve shared with my wife of 45+ years, Ellyn, that you and Darlene were the epitome of high school sweethearts; and, I, too, was honored to be part of your wedding party on September 9, 1967, standing right next to both of you for the picture which I still have, and have added to your photo gallery. It seems like only yesterday and a lifetime ago. Please know that both of you and your entire family will be specifically included in an ongoing focused tribute to our SJHS Class of 1966. Using a rosary for a guide, my prayers of gratitude are sent to all of our parents, teachers and fellow students, followed by a tribute to each of our classmates, by name, who have transitioned, currently 56, with one rosary bead dedicated to each person. I’ve been conducting this tribute as part of an extended three-phase meditation at a very sacred place in Summit County, Colorado since just after our 50th class reunion in 2016. Now, when I come upon Darlene’s bead, I will send extra prayerful intentions beyond her to you, and to all of the loved ones that surround you. Respectfully, R. Sabby
W. Chris Owens January 3, 2018
We are so very sorry to hear of Darlene's passing. Have a lot of memories of our time on 41st Avenue living next door and then after so many ears reconnecting when we ended up buying your house which we called our own for over 20 years. Our Condolences to the entire Family and our prayer that HIS special Peace will surround you in this very difficult time.Chris and Linda Owens
Jackie Scharping January 2, 2018
I am so very sorry for your loss. My deepest sympathies. I got to know Darlene through the Wisconsin child support program. I am sure many of us in the program would agree that Darlene single-handedly improved the lives of children and families in Wisconsin, Illinois and across the country with the development of the Wisconsin-Illinois Border Project. She and the Kenosha Co Child Support Agency were the gracious hosts of many productive meetings which Darlene always made fun and inviting. I feel blessed to have considered her my friend!
Beth Portilia December 31, 2017
Where do I start. Darlene you were one of the greatest, kindest, funniest individuals I have ever known. This makes my heart break. Prayers, Love and Hugs to the Family. I will miss You Darlene. You were one Heck of a Lady!!!
Sue Zimdars Gresham December 30, 2017
Don, my heart breaks for you and your children. What a terrible loss. Rest In Peace dear Dar.
Bob Sarafinis December 29, 2017
Oh my gosh! Don you have my deepest sympathy. Dar had to be the sweetest person I ever knew. Being in your wedding was always my greatest honor. So sorry for your loss!
Lena Schlater December 29, 2017
How very sad, she will be missed by all who knew her. Sincere sympathy to her husband, Don and loving family. Dar’s infectious smile could light up an entire room, may she Rest In Peace.
Lauren Fox December 29, 2017
I was so lucky to have worked with this wonderful woman for 28 years. Our gambling trips and work laughs always bring a smile. I believe her mom came to take her. My thughts to her family and may they know how much she loved them. Rest in peace Dar
Marni Sirks December 29, 2017
I worked with Dar in Child Support from 2001 until she retired. She was such a sweet and funny lady. I still remember her retirement speech. She said we've become a 2nd family. We have gone through the good and bad in life together, marriages, births, divorces and death. We've laughed and cried together. She was always there to listen be it job related or personal. I, too, have missed her since her retirement. First thing I thought of when I heard the news...now she's with her beloved mom. May God comfort you as you deal with her loss.
Ann Willems December 29, 2017
Although I only knew Darlene for several years, I will always remember her smile and kind, gentle personality. I am so glad that she was able to celebrate her 50th wedding anniversary - my husband and I were married the same day - and how much she enjoyed her Alaskan Cruise with her husband. Darlene was a special person. She had a gift for writing beautiful articles in the Kenosha News "My Turn" column. She will be missed.
Chris Steinseifer December 28, 2017
Darlene was my supervisor for many years until she retired but not only was she my supervisor she was also my friend. I have missed so her so much since she retired, she always brought "life" into our department. I feel so fortunate to have known her. She was very proud of her family. Please know that you are all in my thoughts. I will forever have wonderful memories of Darlene. May she Rest In Peace.