Darlene Mucha

Darlene Diane Mucha, 82, of New Richland, went to her heavenly home on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Darlene was a daughter of Rueben and Adeline (Huper) Niebuhr, born on September 7, 1942 in Wells, MN. Throughout her life, Darlene exemplified faithfulness, strength, love, and devotion.

Darlene was united in marriage to the love of her life, Robert Mucha, on June 28, 1960. Together they shared nearly 65 years of unwavering love and companionship, building a life filled with cherished memories. Their journey was blessed with three daughters, who were the heart and soul of their world: Sheryl, Linda, and Wendy. Darlene’s greatest joy was her family. She treasured every precious moment watching grandchildren and great-grandchildren, imparting values of love and kindness.

An active member of St. Peter Evangelical Church, Darlene served with dedication as the church treasurer and participated in various groups, including the women's circle and choir. Her homemade bread was a favorite at church bake sales. Beyond her church commitments, Darlene worked alongside her husband on their family farm, masterfully balancing the demands of farming with those of running a household, hauling corn and beans while driving a tractor with a grandchild on her lap.

Darlene found joy in sewing, quilting, crocheting, knitting, embroidering, gardening, putting together puzzles, cooking, and baking. She generously shared her gifts and talents with her family. Darlene had a deep love for music, with a special fondness for rock bands like AC/DC, Pink Floyd, Tom Petty, and Queen, illustrating her vibrant personality and zest for life.

Darlene leaves behind her devoted husband, Robert; daughters, Sheryl (Eugene) Kelly, Linda (John) Hullopeter, and Wendy (Gerald) Roe; grandchildren, Jackie (Josh) Moen, Amanda (Brian) Schulz, Michael (Shelby) Hullopeter, William (Baily) Hullopeter, and Robert Roe; 13 great-grandchildren, Kendra (Ben) Johnson, Ashton Raimann, Breckyn and Bexleigh Moen, Elliot, Ella, and Hayden Hullopeter, Quinn and Grace Hullopeter, and Landon, Connor, and Hunter Roe; a great-great-grandson, Russell Johnson; siblings, Ronnie Niebuhr, Diane (Denny) Lutteke, and Janet (Bill) Lowe; numerous nieces and nephews; and many extended family members and friends.

In addition to her parents, Darlene was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Sarah Roe; a great-granddaughter, Avery Schulz; and her paternal grandmother, Minnie Niebuhr, with whom she shared a special bond.

A visitation was held for family and friends from 4-7 p.m. on Monday, January 6, 2025 at St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church in New Richland. A funeral service was held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at church with visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial followed at St. Peter Cemetery in New Richland.