Darlene H. Frank

In Loving Memory of Darlene Helen Frank April 1, 1943 - October 20, 2025

With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Darlene Helen Frank, who left us peacefully on Monday, October 20, 2025.

Born on April 1, 1943, to Leo and Verla Draeger, Darlene grew up with a kind heart, a quiet strength, and an enduring love for family, values that would define her entire life.

On May 4, 1963, she married her soulmate, Charles Frank, and together they built not just homes, but a life filled with love, laughter, and dedication. As Charles constructed each new house, Darlene turned them into warm, welcoming homes - often while living in the midst of drywall dust and tools. Her patience and grace during those years were a testament to her unwavering spirit and her gift for creating comfort wherever she was.

Darlene and Charles were blessed with three children: Timothy Frank, Tracy Skillings, and Teri Smeltzer. As a mother, Darlene was gentle, supportive, and endlessly loving. Her family was her world, but her joy only multiplied as it grew.

After a fulfilling career at 3M in Menomonie, Darlene retired in 2002, taking with her not just memories but deep friendships that stood the test of time. It was these friends that became like family after the passing of Charles.

Of all her roles, perhaps the one she cherished most was being a grandmother. With six grandchildren, Darlene found her greatest joy attending the kids' events, whether it be a basketball game, go-kart race, or county fair, she was there with pride in her eyes and love in her heart. In recent years, she became a great-grandmother, and her love simply expanded. Her refrigerator was covered in their photos, and she spoke of them with every opportunity she had. If there was an event to cheer for, Darlene was there - her family's biggest and most devoted fan.

A proud and passionate Packers fan, Darlene's enthusiasm extended beyond game day. She decorated her home for the season, wore the green and gold with pride, and never missed a chance to root for her team.

Darlene's legacy is one of love, loyalty, and quiet strength. She lived a life that touched many, and her warmth will be remembered always.

She is survived by her son, Timothy (Cora) Frank, daughter, Tracy (Tim) Skillings, daughter, Teri (Kevin) Smeltzer; her six grandchildren, Marissa (Mitchell) Nelson, Shelby (Ryan) Tischman, Jessica (Logan) Skovbroten, Kelsey (Lance) Anderson, Jacob (Lexi) Smeltzer, and Nathan (Lexey) Frank. Eleven great grandchildren; Marshall, Madison, Peyton, Paige, Roy, Rhett, Kinsey, Levi, Luke, Kayden, and Kaycen. Her brother Jerome (Pat) Draeger. As well as many other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and grandson Bryce Smeltzer.

Funeral services will be Tuesday October 28, 2025, 11:00 a.m. at Christ Lutheran Church in Menomonie with Pastor Mary Eide. There will be a visitation Monday from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Olson Funeral Home and at the church one hour prior to the service on Tuesday. Burial will be in Sherman Cemetery.

To share a memory, please visit obituaries at www.olsonfuneral.com