February 24, 1925 - June 24, 2023
Darlene Ruth Thieking, age 98, passed away June 24, 2023, at Good Samaritan Village in Loveland, Colorado. Darlene was born February 24, 1925, in rural Butler County, Iowa. She was the oldest of six children born to Alfred and Linda (Mueller) Kleinschmidt. She attended a one-room school for eight years, and was a 1942 graduate of Clarksville High School. After attending Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa, she worked briefly for Lutheran Mutual Insurance
Company.
Darlene married Wayne Thieking on June 4, 1944, in Waverly, Iowa. The couple made their home in Waverly, where their three children were born. In 1954, the family moved to Boulder, Colorado, where Darlene was employed by the local school district. In 1970, they built the United Campground RV park east of Loveland, which they operated for twelve years. After retirement they moved to Loveland, and in 2012 became residents at Good Samaritan Village.
Darlene enjoyed reading, games and puzzles, sewing, needlework, and spending time with family and friends. She and Wayne also enjoyed traveling and visited every state, as well as Canada, Mexico and Europe. They traveled extensively in their motor home and spent many winters in Mesa, Arizona. They also went on several cruises. They were active members of the Sweetheart Sams RV club.
Darlene was preceded in death by her husband of 74 years, in 2018, a sister Roberta Ramker and brother Donald Kleinschmidt. She is survived by her three children, Leonard Thieking of Longmont, Barbara Price, Longmont, and Steven Thieking (Linda), Savage, Minnesota; and grandchildren Kristi Brackett, David Thieking (Mamie), Katherine Thieking and Kirk Thieking. She is also survived by sisters Lois Palmer, Norma Iserman, and Shirley Heinselman, and many nieces and nephews.
Following cremation, a private service will be held at a later date, with inurnment at Good Samaritan Columbarium in Loveland. Donations in Darlene’s memory are suggested to Zion Lutheran Church in Loveland, Good Samaritan Loveland Village or a charity of your choice.
