The passing of Darlene Schaefer, affectionately known as “Ma,” on February 20, 2025, marked the end of a life filled with love, family, and hard work. Born on a farm near Rockwell, Iowa on January 19, 1941, Darlene grew up in rural Mitchell County, IA, where she developed a deep connection to the land and animals. Her story is one of resilience, love, and dedication to her family.
A Life Rooted in Iowa
Darlene Karen Scholl’s journey began on a farm, where she learned the value of hard work from her father, Walter, and mother, Evelyn. Her childhood was spent helping her father with farm chores and forming a bond with the animals that roamed their land. This early connection to nature would shape her life in profound ways.
It was at a local dance where Darlene met her future husband, Thomas “Tommy” Schaefer. Their love story unfolded against the backdrop of rural Iowa, and they were married on October 22, 1960. Together, they raised cows, hogs, and chickens on the family farm, instilling a strong work ethic and a sense of responsibility in their three children.
A Legacy of Love and Family
As their children grew up and started their own families, Darlene found joy in working at various local eateries, where her outgoing personality and strong work ethic made her a beloved figure in the community. Her days were filled with laughter, good food, and lively conversations with customers and colleagues alike.
Darlene and Tommy’s legacy lives on through their three children: Sheila, Renae, and Larry, as well as their seven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. Each generation carries a piece of Darlene’s spirit, her kindness, and her unwavering love for family.
A Fond Farewell
On February 26, 2025, friends and family gathered at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Riceville to pay their respects to Darlene Schaefer. The church filled with memories, laughter, and tears as loved ones shared stories of her life and the impact she had on those around her.
As the service came to a close, a sense of peace settled over the gathering, a feeling that Darlene’s spirit would live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Though she may have left this world, her legacy of love, hard work, and family endures, a testament to a life well lived.
In the quiet moments after the service, as the sun dipped below the horizon and a gentle breeze rustled the trees outside, it was clear that Darlene Schaefer’s memory would endure, a beacon of light and love in a world that often feels dark and uncertain. And as her loved ones said their final goodbyes, they knew that she would always be with them, guiding them, comforting them, and reminding them of the power of love, the strength of family, and the beauty of a life well lived.
