Darlene Elaine Stough

 Darlene Elaine (Hage) Stough, was born Jan 2, 1939 in Mountain Lake, MN. She was the 2nd of 11 children born to Selmer & Margaret (Ogren) Hage. She attended elementary school at District #12 rural school 3 mi from the family farm. Usually walking or riding bikes to attend school. She was an outstanding student and the only girl in her high school geometry class. She graduated from St. James High School in 1956. She attended, was active in and confirmed at the rural church, Long Lake Lutheran in rural St. James, MN. 

 After graduating high school she worked in St James and Fairmont, MN. She met the love of her life, Clinton Stough in 1957 while working in Fairmont, MN. They were married in a blizzard Jan 25, 1958 at the Long Lake Lutheran Church in rural St. James, MN. 

 Darlene had never learned to cook so her mother-in-law Ethel (Greenwood) Stough took on the job to teach her. She ended up being the best cook in the family and known for her homemade pies and baked goods. She was very artistic, known for her elaborate gift wrapping and bows on gifts. She was asked to help decorate many parties and receptions. She was a gifted seamstress, making many clothes for her family. 

 She was a longtime member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Spencer. She was active in many things at the church during this time including alter guild. Later she transferred to Bethany Lutheran Church in Spencer, IA. 

 She worked a variety of jobs but her true favorite is the 24 years she spent at the Clay County Auditor’s office working with the elections and voter registration. She thrived in her love of meeting new people, making new lifetime friends came easy for her. 

 Darlene passed away June 18, 2024 at the Spencer Municipal Hospital at the age of 85. She was preceded in death by her parents, her in laws, daughter, Ellen Marie, husband, Clinton. Brothers, Ronald, James, Mel and sister Marlys Kirkland. Brothers-in-law: Roger of IA, Arthur (Norma) and sister-in-law Shirley (Arthur) Matasovsky of MN. 

 Left to cherish her memory her 2 children, Terry (Sharon) Stough of CA., Carma (Jay) Betz of IA. Grandchildren, Kyle (Marta) Stough of CA., Alexander Betz of NE., Shelby Bee of IA. Brothers, Ken (Mary) Hage and Thomas (Ruth) Hage of MN. Sisters, Joan (Garry) Kramer of OR, Ruth Ann (Doug) Koob of MO., Nancy May of MN., Norma Jean Kerns of FL., sister-in-law Joyce Stough of IA. Nieces and nephews and many friends to numerous to mention. 

 Purple was Darlene's signature color. Please wear purple to the service to honor her memory.