Darlene Pauline Hofer, 86, of Freeman, S.D., died Aug. 11, 2024. Born Dec. 8, 1937, she grew up on a turkey farm west of Freeman, the third of four daughters of Paul and Tillie Waldner (née Hofer). She cherished her childhood, filled with the love and companionship of her sisters, Violet Terveen, Ardella Gross and Sharon Waltner.

She began her education at a country school close to home and later attended Freeman Academy and Freeman Junior College. At Freeman Academy she met her future husband, Norman Hofer. Both pursued teacher’s training prior to their marriage on Aug. 18, 1957, at Hutterthal Mennonite Church, which marked the beginning of a lifetime together.

Darlene’s faith was a central part of her life. Baptized at Hutterthal Mennonite Church in 1956, her deep faith guided her throughout her life.

In their early years of marriage, Darlene and Norman lived in a trailer on Norman’s parents’ farm, enjoying the simple pleasures of life. They later chose to serve in 1-W service in Lancaster, Pa. For their voluntary service, Norm worked in the pharmacy of the Lancaster General Hospital, and Darlene worked at Stauffer’s Market of Kissel Hill, where they formed lifelong friendships with members of the Stauffer family.

Their first child, Galen Jay, was born in Pennsylvania, and soon after, they returned to Freeman to live in Darlene’s childhood home. There they raised their three children: Galen, Lori Ann and Vicki Sue.

Known for her boundless hospitality, Darlene’s home was a welcoming place for all, from friends to strangers. Without exception, those that visited the home of Darlene and Norman felt the love and warmth of her hospitality.

She is survived by her husband, Norman; children Galen Hofer, Lori Ortman and Vicki Hofer-Holdeman; and six grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; infant brother Martin and sister Sharon Waltner; her parents-in-law; stepfather-in-law; and in-laws Archie Terveen, John Gross, Angie and Jonathan Mendel, Baylor Hofer, Leo Tschetter and Percy Brockmueller.