Darlene Fresonke

Darlene Fresonke, age 91 of Perham, MN died in her home Friday, December 25, 2020. A private, family graveside service will be held at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church Cemetery in Perham.

Darlene Ardis Illg was born July 29, 1929 to Robert H. and Leona L. (Kadolph) Illg in Silver Leaf Township near Frazee, MN. She attended rural grade school and graduated from Frazee High School in 1949. Darlene married Elmer A. Fresonke April 22, 1953 in Frazee. Together they had three children Richard (Sue), Robert, and Paul (Kathy); three grandchildren Mark, Patty (Zach), and Tim (Maggie); and one great-grandson Oliver. Elmer died November 21, 2013 and son Robert “Bob” died November 27, 2014.

Also surviving Darlene are her two sisters Betty Olson and Joyce Stephenson-Severson, both of Detroit Lakes, MN. Preceding Darlene in death were her parents; and her siblings Ruth Rethwisch, Lavern “Tiny” Illg, Helen Nelson, and Robert “Sonny” Illg.

Many will remember Darlene for what she called her “Garage Boutique” on Third Avenue SE in Perham. She loved buying, selling, and shopping local garage sales. She also enjoyed the social aspect of sales. She gained numerous friendships over the years as one of these friendships even brought Darlene daily meals. Darlene liked to stay busy in her vegetable and flower gardens. Her family and friends will remember her dill pickles and pickled beets, both picked and canned when small. Darlene also liked pickling fish and putting together puzzles.

In Darlene’s words, “nobody make a big fuss, no funeral is planned.” In lieu of flowers or cards, memorials are preferred to either St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Perham or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Schoeneberger Funeral & Cremation Service, Perham, MN (218) 346-5175 www.schoenebergerfh.com