Darlene Emily (Reynolds) Woodward

Darlene was born at home in Ravenna, Ohio, on November 14th, 1936. She was the daughter of the late William D. and Helen L. (Curtis) Reynolds. Darlene lived in Ravenna until about the age of 5, when she relocated with her parents to Alpena. It was there she later met the love of her life Frank E. Woodward and they were united in marriage on June 27th, 1953, in her parents backyard on White Street in Alpena, and raised a family of two boys. A few months following the death of her husband in June 2020, Darlene moved to Marquette, MI, to convalesce and spend time with her eldest son Frank.

At the age of 14, Darlene began working at the Woolworth store, on its opening day, in Alpena. She worked there until after she married and had her first child. Darlene also worked for a short time at the McClellan’s five and dime store. Later Darlene worked 5 years as an office manager and dental assistant for the late Dr. Robert F. Davison DDS. She then worked as a patient assistant for the OBGYN office of Dr. William L. Fox and Dr. Scott (Scotty) McDougall, until she retired in May of 1987.

Darlene was known by many in the Alpena community, and could be found often looking for that great “bargain” in the Alpena Mall, in which she walked for exercise and visited with many. She was part of a breakfast bunch that met weekly, and they were her “buddies.” She will be missed dearly. For many years Darlene enjoyed spending time Sunday afternoons with family for a great noon meal prepared by her mother at “The Farm” near Spruce, MI, where her parents lived.

Over the years, Darlene loved to crochet, feed the birds and squirrels, sit in the sun, go to the lake, play BINGO, and organize things. She was known for her fantastic huckleberry pie (she made the best crust). She loved her late toy poodle dog Chauncey, which she spoiled. While living in Marquette, Darlene attended Woodland Church along with her son Frank. That church community had a tremendous impact on Darlene and she greatly enjoyed the fellowship of the congregation. It was there she found many new friends and their love and support for her was touching to say the least.

Darlene dearly loved and was devoted to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her two sons; Frank C. Woodward of Marquette and Rick R. Woodward (Mary) of Kalamazoo, along with three grandchildren; Ashley Lager (Corey), Melissa O’Brien (Cameron), and Christopher Woodward (Autumn), as well as, 3 great-grandchildren; Liam O’Brien, Annabelle O’Brien, and Milo Lager and a 4th great- grandchild expected in early fall, all of the Kalamazoo area. She is also survived by her brother; William A. Reynolds (Vicki) of Colorado.

In addition, Darlene was preceded in death by her sister; Arlene “Babe” Walters (Jerry), and sister-in-law; Marion B. Wilson.

A private informal family graveside service will be held in Alpena.

Memorials may be directed to Hospice of Michigan-Alpena (www.hom.org) in memory of Darlene and her late husband Frank.

Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services, Marquette, is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com.