Darlene Louise Schmidt was born on March 30, 1923, at Mower County, Minnesota to Harry Oscar and Jessie Ellen (Saxby) Learn. She was baptized and confirmed at Austin, Minnesota. Darlene graduated from Austin High School in 1940.On October 10, 1946, she was married to O. Dale Schmidt at Austin. She worked various jobs through out her life and mainly as a homemaker. She was a long time member of Trinity Lutheran Church. She enjoyed dancing, baking, and activities with her grandchildren. Darlene always had a smile and a "giggle" when visiting with others.Darlene died on Friday morning, December 18, at Appleton Area Health Services. She had attained 86 years, 8 months, and 18 days of age.She is survived by two children: Patricia (Arlen) Runia, and Bruce (Sharon) Schmidt both of Appleton; five grandchildren: Travis, Sara, and Rachel Runia and Chyanna Schmidt; several nieces and nephews and other relatives.She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Dale, on February 8, 2006; three brothers and three sisters.