Darlene Akers

DARLENE AKERS

Guttenberg

Darlene Akers passed away at the Guttenberg Care Center on Dec. 16, 2020. She was born on a farm near Garber on May 26, 1927, to Malcolm and Opal (Harris) Harbaugh. She graduated from Colesburg High School in 1944. After graduation, she worked at Collins Radio in Cedar Rapids until meeting her future husband. Darlene married Harley Akers on May 23, 1953, at

St. Paul's Church in Guttenberg. Four children were born to this union.

Darlene enjoyed being around people and her job choices reflected that. She spent many years owning and operating the Corner Cafe with her mother and husband. After the restaurant business, she was a secretary at Guttenberg Community Schools, a job where she loved the kids and the staff.

Darlene was a huge Elvis Presley fan. She collected many Elvis souvenirs throughout the years, and thanks to her brother Larry and his wife Eva, she had the joy of visiting Graceland. She never did get a drivers' license, but did enjoy shopping, so she became an "armchair shopper" before it was cool. Another passion she had was jewelry, she wore it religiously and always had plenty of back-up.

Darlene was a member St. Paul's Church, a member of TOPS for several years and which allowed her the enjoyment of attending some of the TOPS conventions. She was also a lifelong member of the American Legion Auxiliary.

Darlene especially enjoyed spending time and celebrations with her children, grandchildren, extended family and friends. After her husband passed away, she was very fortunate to be surrounded by a special group of gal pals. These ladies shared many adventures, gatherings and just plain fun. This group embraced the phrase "Live, Laugh, Love."

Darlene was preceded in death by her parents; an infant brother; her husband, Harley, in 1994; daughter, Susan Sornchai, in 2007; and son-in-law, Peerapong Sornchai, in 2020.

She will be deeply missed by her children, Sharon (Luke) Kellner, Jim (Lynda) Akers and Judy (Steve) Clefisch; grandchildren, Adam (Jessica) Sornchai, Alex (Kristina) Sornchai, Lexi Sornchai, Mike Kellner, Tim Kellner, Gabe (Sarah) Kellner, Jessica (Nate) Nall, Danny Akers, Melanie Akers, Nichole (Mike) Plagge and Travis Clefisch; 11 great-grandchildrenm with another on the way; brotherm Larry (Eva) Harbaugh; sister-in-law, Marjorie Akers; and cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

Darlene always enjoyed reading, and had a special love for cats. Memorials may be directed to the Guttenberg Library the Humane Society or an organization of choice. Arrangements are being handled by Tuecke-Allyn Funeral Home, 207 S. First St,, Guttenberg, Iowa. There will be a private family graveside service.