Darlene Parolini

Darlene was born October 27, 1940, in Lily, Wisconsin, to Leland and Evelyn (Zilch) Pendleton, and attended school in Wisconsin. She married Clarence Parolini on July 22, 1992, and throughout their time together they enjoyed traveling to many destinations.

Darlene started her career journey as a secretary for Time Insurance in Milwaukee. Later when she moved to the U.P, she found work with Kaiser Engineering, building the Tilden expansion. After leaving she went to work for Dr. Tobin as his secretary. During this time, she continued her education at Northern Michigan University and received her associate degree in office administration. After Bell Memorial Hospital bought Dr. Tobin’s clinic, Darlene participated in the installation of the Steelworkers union where she was on the negotiating committee. She continued to work for the Bell clinics until her retirement.

In her spare time, she enjoyed knitting and crocheting, making hats, mittens and prayer shawls for the church. Upon her retirement from Bell, she joined the Steelworkers Retirees Club and was the secretary for many years, which she enjoyed very much. Darlene was always up for a boat ride or a cookout on the basin at her son’s house. She enjoyed spending time with her blended family, with the children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Surviving are her husband, Clarence ‘Bea’ Parolini who has since passed and his two children, Wendy and David; a daughter, Veronica; two sons, Terry and Richard (Audrey); and her grandchildren, Spencer (Rachel) and Amanda (Nick).

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lee and Evelyn; a brother, Ellwood Pendleton; and a sister, Florence Henke.

Honoring Darlene’s wishes, no public services will be held. A private memorial will be held on May 22, 2024. Interment will take place in Northland Chapel Gardens.

Mrs. Parolini’s memorial page may be viewed at koskeyfuneralhome.com.