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Darla Jean Axline
Darla Jean Axline
Anamosa
On April 7, 2025, Darla Jean Axline lost her courageous battle with cancer.
Darla was born in Bellevue, Iowa on September 17, 1945 to Don and Alice Axline. She moved to Anamosa, Iowa where she met and married Ronald Watson on July 4, 1968. Ron brought 2 children into this union. They later added a set of twin boys of their own.
Darla worked several jobs throughout her young life. However, her favorite job was being a stay-at-home mom to raise her twin sons. She discovered a knack for sewing and crafting. She enjoyed beading, making jewelry, and baking goodies for her friends and loved ones. Darla loved her grandchildren very much, and some their favorite memories were built during tea parties with Grandma.
After Ron’s death, Darla met the love of her life, Russell Knoll. Darla and Russ committed themselves to each other on August 11, 2017. Darla and Russ had many adventures together, traveling to Florida and Texas and many points in between. They shared many happy moments together in their home in Cedar Falls.
Darla is survived by Russell Knoll, her sons (Victor {Kim} Tipton, John {Denette} Watson, and Donald {Shelley} Watson), her grandchildren, Katie Tipton, Jennifer (Corey) Ashe, and Laura (Todd) Gregory, Teaya Perez, Zachoriah, Ronin, Harrison, and Benjamyn Watson, 3 great-grandchildren, and a cousin/sibling Karen Mull. Darla also accepted Russ’s family as her own.
Darla was welcomed to heaven where we are sure a glorious tea party was held with Jesus, the angels, and all of her loved ones that have passed before her. Her Momma and Daddy, her Grandparents, her first husband, her sisters, her stepdaughter Michelle and stepson-in-law Chris. Also, there were her beloved cousins that were raised as and considered siblings, Butch, Larry, Jerry, and Don Mull.
A Celebration of Life is being held in Darla’s honor on August 2, 2025, at the Lawerence Community Center in Anamosa. The family will be there to greet people from 11 AM to 2 PM.
You will always be in our hearts, Mom/Grandma.
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