Darlene Kahler

Darlene Joyce (Payne) Kahler, age 93, passed away 12/27/2024.

Darlene was born March 24, 1931 to Kermit and Rose (Siebert) Payne in Hinckley, MN. Darlene’s family moved to the Truman area when she was a preschooler where her father farmed, ran the gas station at the corner of Highways 15/30, and then drove a gas truck. When her family moved to Granite Falls before her senior year, Darlene stayed with friends in order to graduate from Truman High School in 1949.

Darlene married the love of her life, Duane Kahler, on December 12, 1949, at the Truman Church of Christ.

During her teen years, Darlene worked at grocery and retail stores in both Truman and Fairmont. After marriage, Darlene and Duane worked for and with Walt and Elaine Johnson on their farm east of Truman. Duane entered the Air Force during the Korean War. Darlene traveled with Duane and worked in various jobs while Duane served his country. In 1963, Duane was hired by Kerr McGee at the fertilizer plant and the family moved into Truman. In 1968, the Kahler family had the opportunity to move to Colorado to manage a small ranching operation. When that employment ended, the family returned to Truman. Darlene worked at Paul’s Super Value for many years until an injury forced her to resign. She later provided childcare to families in the Truman area and was a much-loved Nana. 

Duane and Darlene enjoyed wintering at Tropical Valley Acres in Mission, Texas for 27 years. Darlene was active at the park including chairing many vendor fairs, helping with quilting, cards, bingo, hosting the Saturday night dances, and MCing the Saturday morning coffees. She loved the microphone! 

Darlene was a member of the Truman Church of Christ where she worshipped regularly.

Darlene is survived by her children David (Tonia) Kahler and Linda (Cleon) Mohwinkel, four grandchildren, Tamsen, Danielle, Rhett, and Matt, seven great-grandchildren, Ben, Nathan, Ryder, Kennedy, Ayrabella, Zane, and Lincoln, and a sister Rosalie Knapp of Ottertail, MN. 

Darlene is preceded in death by her husband of almost 72 years, Duane, her parents, sister Shirley Mitchell, brothers Kenneth and Harlan Payne, brothers-in-law, sister-in-law, nephews, nieces, and many cousins, other family members, and wonderful friends. 

Funeral services will be held Thursday January 9, 2025, 11 AM at the Church of Christ in Truman. Visitation will be an hour before the service. Burial will be at Horicon Cemetery. Online condolences can be left at www.zahariafamilyfuneral.com