Darlene Norma Dunning passed away peacefully in Vancouver, Washington on July 25, 2022. She was born on Nov. 6, 1924, in Tyndall, South Dakota, to Edward and Florence Tingley.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Virgil Dunning; her parents; four brothers, Carroll “Ted,” Howard, Louis and Donald; and her sisters, Ruth Marvin, Kathleen (Tiny) Freeman,and Merna Condon Elmer.

Darlene is survived by her three children: Wayne Dunning (Roxie); James Dunning (Patsy) and Vicki Stegmann; seven grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; and her unofficially adopted son, Joe Castleberry (Jann).

Darlene graduated from Battle Ground High School in 1940 at age 16 and married Virgil Dunning two years later. They began their life together while Virgil served in the Coast Guard on Friday Harbor and at Copalis Beach, Washington during WWII.

Darlene and Virgil owned and operated Dunning & Norton service stations in Aberdeen, Washington with partner, Donald Norton from 1946 to 1986. In her 40s she passed the SIE exam and became a licensed stockbroker.

Darlene was an avid outdoors person loving Grays Harbor and all the Pacific Northwest offered for fishing, hunting, clamming and camping and in later years explored many states with Virgil in their RV. She was a creative homemaker who was an accomplished seamstress, gardener, baker and fun-maker. For many years she delighted family with an extravaganza called “Christmas in July” at a favored camping spot.

Darlene was also a mentor to many local youths as a leader in scouts, 4H and as unofficial adoptive parent and grandparent for numerous children she and Virgil took in. She was affectionately known as “Mrs. D” by many who loved her.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, Sept. 10 on the beach near Copalis, Washington. All are welcome — details concerning the service can be obtained by contacting family members.

Donations in Darlene’s memory may be made to Coastal Community Action Program (CCAP), 101 East Market, Aberdeen, WA 98520.