Darlene Van Auken Wodrich

Darlene Van Auken Wodrich (“Sport”), age 90, of Little McDonald Lake, Perham, Minnesota, passed away on Thursday, October 30, 2025, in Hinsdale, Illinois.

Darlene was born on March 25, 1935, in Pleasant Lake, Indiana, to Basil and Zoa (Freed) Van Auken. She graduated from Angola High School and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in education from Indiana University, Bloomington.

Darlene dedicated over 40 years to her career as an elementary school teacher—answering her lifelong calling to teach, nurture, and inspire others. During her early years of teaching, she met and married her husband of 60 years, David Wodrich. Together, they built a life filled with love, family, and purpose. After many years in Illinois, they retired to their beloved home on “The Lake,” which had been the heart of their lives for most of their marriage.

Even after moving to Minnesota, Darlene continued her passion for education, teaching keyboarding and computer skills to elementary-age students. Never one to sit still, she was an active member of her church and community. Alongside Dave—a skilled craftsman and woodworker—she took joy in finishing furniture, dollhouses, quilting and gardening.

Darlene believed deeply in giving back. In Hinsdale, where she raised her family, and also in Minnesota she volunteered tirelessly at church and school, always ready to lend a helping hand to her lake family and friends.

Darlene is survived by her daughter, Cindy (Jim) Klima; her grandson, Chase Wodrich; her brother, Tom (Joan) Van Auken; numerous nieces and nephews; and many dear friends who were so important to her and her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Mike; her grandson, Jacob; and her brother, Jack (Nathalie) Van Auken.

 A visitation will be held on Sunday, November 16 from 3:30pm until time of funeral service 4:30pm, at Union Church, 137 S Garfield Ave, Hinsdale

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Calvary Lutheran Church, 619 3rd Ave SW, Perham, MN 56573.

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