Darlene Joyce Swanson, age 79 of Dickens, passed away Thursday July 17, 2014 at Centennial Park in North Platte.
Darlene was born on January 24, 1935 in North Platte to Rastie and Mary (Hayworth) Stearns. She grew up in the area and graduated from North Platte High School. She married Gordon Swanson on July 12, 1952 and the couple lived in California while he was in the service. After Gordon’s discharge, they returned to ranch in Dickens and continued to live there until moving to Wallace four years ago. Darlene was the Postmaster at Dickens for many years; also she and Gordon tended bar in Wallace and were caretakers of the Dickens Cemetery.
Darlene is survived by her husband Gordon; 3 children Lynn (Kathy) Swanson of Wallace, Cindy Swanson of North Platte and Toad (Rod Wilson) West of Wallace; 9 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; sister Maxine Gayman of North Platte; brother Terry (Valarie) Stearns of North Platte; and numerous other family members and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Darrell, Tom and Don; sister, Arlene; and son-in-law, Bob West.
Memorials are suggested to the Wallace Fire Department and online condolences may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com. Graveside services will be 3:00 p.m. Monday July 21, 2014 at the Dickens Cemetery. The family request closed toed shoes at the cemetery due to the cactus. A reception will follow services at the Wallace Legion Hall. Visitation will be noon until 6:00 p.m. Sunday with family receiving friends from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Adams and Swanson Funeral Home which is in charge of arrangements.