Darlyne Windahl, age 85, of Thief River Falls, Minnesota, passed away on March 18, 2026, after a well-lived life. Darlyne lived a life defined by faith, hard work, and an unwavering love for her family.

Darlyne was born April 15, 1940, in Grand Forks, North Dakota, to Henry and Gina Hallick. Her childhood was spent trying to keep up with her two older brothers, Gorman and Harold, whom she adored and admired. As a young girl she developed a love for games and sports, which endured throughout her life.

On May 30, 1959, she married the love of her life, Milo Windahl. Together they had two children and built a beautiful life on their farm west of Newfolden, Minnesota, where they worked the land side by side for 58 years. 

Darlyne was no stranger to hard work. In addition to farming, she worked at Northern Pride for 29 years and later at DigiKey for 18 years until she retired at the age of 72. Whether she was in the field, on the job, or in her kitchen, she gave everything her full effort and then some. She was an excellent cook and baker, and anyone fortunate enough to sit at her table knew they were in for something special. 

When she wasn't working, Darlyne filled her days with the things that brought her joy. She was an avid reader, crocheter and quilter, and a passionate gardener who took pride in both her flowers and her vegetables. Milo and Darlyne enjoyed keeping their lawn immaculate, and they spent their evenings watching sports and game shows. Darlyne also had a deep love for animals, especially her dogs, Buster and Buddy. 

Darlyne was a dedicated member of her community and her church. At Bethania Lutheran Church, she taught Sunday School for many years, served as a ladies aid leader, and participated faithfully in Bible study. At Westaker Lutheran Church, she continued her service through the ladies aid, Bible study, and caring for the church itself. Her faith was the foundation of her life, and it sustained her through seasons of both joy and sorrow. She was a strong woman who suffered great losses with dignity and grace. 

Darlyne was preceded in death by her husband, Milo; son, Wayne; grandson Jeremy; great grandson Burke Loewe; parents, Henry and Gina Hallick; and brothers, Gorman and Harold Hallick. 

She is survived by her daughter, Debra Unke (Garth); daughter-in-law, Brenda Windahl; three grandchildren, Brittany Windahl (Andrew Loewe), Katharin Unke Smith (Ryan Smith), Joshua Unke (Sarah); ten great-grandchildren, Ariya, Aurora, Aston, Aikley, Arysen, Ambrose, Beckham, Burkleigh, Everett and Isabel; as well as nieces, nephews, cousins and many dear friends. 

Darlyne was a good and loyal friend with a playful spirit and a kind heart. She loved her family and cherished every moment spent with them. She will be dearly missed by all. 

The family members are deeply grateful to the staff at Greenleaf Memory Care in Thief River Falls, and the care team at HIA Hospice for the gentle kindness and compassionate care they provided for our mom, grandma, and GiGi. 

Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 7, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m prayer service will begin at 6:30 p.m at Johnson-Green Funeral Service in Thief River Falls, Minnesota. A memorial service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 8, at Westaker Lutheran Church in Newfolden, Minnesota with the visitation one hour prior. Burial will follow at Bethesda Cemetery, rural Newfolden. 

May she rest in the arms of her Lord, reunited with those she loved who went before her.