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Darlene Kay Engle passed away December 25, 2016 surrounded by her loving family at Bronson At Home Hospice Residence in Battle Creek. She was born June 1, 1938 in Union City, MI to William and Pearl (Barber) Bowen. Darlene was married on January 16, 1956 to Ira O. Engle and made their home on an 80-acre farm in Athens. They were married for 55 years until his death in 2011. Darlene was employed in the 1960’s at Dare Products in Battle Creek. She later worked as a middle school cafeteria cook for Athens Area Schools until her retirement. Upon their retirement they moved to Cherokee Village, Arkansas. They returned home to Michigan in 2001 to be near family.

Darlene was a devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She was very hard-working and helped out on the farm. She took great pride in her home and she was very devoted to her faith. She enjoyed traveling, especially fishing trips to Canada, baking her famous apple pies, and playing a good game of cards. She will be dearly missed by all left behind.

She is survived by her children, Deborah (Aaron) Abbott of Battle Creek, Michael (Linda) Engle of Bellevue, Valoree L. Engle of Elkhart, IN, and Mark I. Engle of Elkhart, IN; grandchildren, Eric (Sarah) Abbott, Corey Engle, and Christy (Matt) New; great-grandchildren, Dallas and Ryder Abbott, Carter Engle, and Evelyn New; and one brother, Jerry Bowen of Plainwell.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Cheryl L. Engle; six sisters; three brothers; and two great-grandchildren, James Engle and Liam Abbott.

A graveside service will take place at a later date. She has been cremated according to her wishes. Memorial donations may be made to Bronson At Home Hospice Residence of Battle Creek.