Darlene M. Munson, age 80, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on October 17, 2017. Darlene May Cepel was born June 19, 1937 in Kearney, NE to John and Gladys Cepel. The family moved to a farm near Gibbon, NE when Darlene was 12. She loved living on the farm and attending country school. Darlene became an accomplished pianist and it was through music that she met Donald Munson while attending Kearney High School.

In 1957, she and Don married and made their home in Kearney, where she worked at Gaston Music Co. Their daughter, Michelle was born in 1960. They moved to Webster, SD in 1962 and their son Matthew was born in 1963. In 1967, the family moved to Huron, SD, where they lived for more than 30 years. Darlene worked as a secretary, but her most important roles were wife and mother. She was always happiest spending time with her family, whether on family camping trips or sharing dinner around the table. Darlene’s home was always filled with music, whether she was playing piano, or listening to favorites on the stereo. Through the years, the family traveled to the Black Hills several times and it became Darlene’s favorite destination.

In 2001, Darlene and Don moved to Bloomington, MN. Darlene kept in touch with distant friends and relatives through her letter writing. Many family and friends received beautiful hand-made cards from Darlene. She also enjoyed cross-stitch and embroidery, creating many stitchery gifts to mark milestones in loved ones’ lives. And, there was always music. She played piano almost every day and sometimes Don played along on his cornet. She particularly enjoyed the tradition of playing holiday music with other family members at Christmas time. She and Don also enjoyed antiquing, taking short day trips and playing cards. But for all her talents and interests, Darlene was happiest when spending time with her family, especially the little ones.

Darlene is survived by her loving husband of 60 years, Donald; daughter Michelle Munson (Charles Thorne); son Matthew (Brenda) Munson; grandchildren Nikolas (Saritha) Munson and Shannon (David) Markley; great-grandchildren Alexis, Dakota, Kyle, Ashlyn, Megan and Carson; brother Harold (Lula) Cepel and many other relatives. She was preceded in death by her parents John and Gladys Cepel. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 11 at 2 pm at Gill Brothers Funeral Home, 9947 Lyndale Ave. S., Bloomington. Visitation one hour prior to service. Memorials preferred to Parkinson’s Foundation (parkinson.org) or donor’s choice.

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