Darlene Bennett

MOUNT MORRIS – Darlene J. Bennett passed away at 1:15 pm. Wednesday, April 14, 2010, at her home, surrounded by family and friends, after a long illness.

She was born Sept. 7, 1946, in Rockford, to Russell and Norma (Bachman) Barnhart. Darlene was one of six children, and had a twin sister who died at 6 months old.

Darlene worked in the food industry most of her life and was a restaurant owner for several years. She spent the last 10 years working at Kysor Westran, and was a proud member of UAW Local 1720. She was a union representative for several years, and a member of UAW Local 1720 Women’s Committee.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Gerald Bennett in infancy; her twin sister, Marlene; and two brothers, Chuck Barnhart and Don Barnhart.

She is survived by her children, Tina (Dave) Barnhart and Don “Bubba” (Laura) Bennett, both of Mount Morris, Mark (Jen) Bennett of Mount Carroll, Steph (Gerry) Gibson of Galt, Maureen of Wisconsin, Sandy (Raymond) Butterfield of Phoenix, and Denise of Lanark; 26 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren, with one more on the way; several nieces and nephews; one brother, David Barnhart; and one sister.

Funeral service will be at 7 p.m. Monday at Farrell-Holland-Gale Funeral Home, 110 S. Seventh St., Oregon, with the Rev. Rich Fassig, Ogle County Hospice chaplain, officiating. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.

A memorial has been established in her name.

The family also would like to offer their gratitude to Ogle County Hospice for the exceptional care.

Visit www.farrellhollandgale.com to send condolences.