Darlene Elizabeth Gates passed away on February 16, 2025. The family is deeply saddened but know she is at peace with her beloved parents, Rusty and Neva Marion.
Darlene is survived and missed by her loving husband of 65 years, Larry; her son, Tim; daughter-in-law, Karol; and grandsons, Tommy and Tanner. Her memory will be cherished by the Daniels family, Bret and Betty, and her memory will live on with her chosen family members: Ollie and Meghan Spaeth and family, and her ‘adopted daughters’ Molly, Amanda and Megan. She is also survived by her eldest son, Daniel, and sisters, Marilyn and Bunny.
Darlene was born on June 4, 1941, in Kansas City, Missouri and grew up in St. Louis, Missouri. She met her husband Larry at the age of 16 at Riverview Gardens High School in St. Louis, Missouri. Right from the start Larry gave her the endearment, Queen, because, in his eyes, she would shine the brightest in any room. She and Larry were married on February 5, 1960. When Larry joined the United States Air Force, they lived at various air force bases in Austin, Texas; Sedalia, Missouri; and Miami, Florida. Some of her greatest joy came from traveling, 4-wheeling, visiting old mining sites, and researching genealogy and the history of Colorado. Darlene and Larry created many memories while enjoying trips as a family and traveling over 35 states, England, Wales, Ireland and Scotland. She was a highly accomplished artist that could create vivid, photo-like images using pencils, watercolors, pastels and oils.
Darlene took an active role in documenting family memories. You would not see her without her cameras for very long. Whether it was a holiday family gathering or one of her son’s heavy metal or 80s band performances, she was always in the front filming it all, dancing and laughing while she did. The family will be forever grateful to her because the memories she captured will be cherished by generations to come.
Through these accomplishments and many more, her love of life will carry on, reminding us that we were fortunate to share this all too short life with her.
There are no words that can express how grateful and blessed we are to our neighbors, friends and family who have shared their well wishes and messages of strength. The family will announce the celebration of life details at a later time. Until then, grab a beer, a shot or libation of choice to share in a virtual toast from our family to yours in ‘The Queen’s’ honor!
Max Montoya
19 Feb 2025We are so so sorry for your loss. Dad has so many found memories of all you guys having good times together. As well as I do, we will miss her but cherish our memories. Our hearts are with all of you and love you all!
Max and Tracie Montoya
Tanya Bender
20 Feb 2025Rest in peace Darlene, you were one of the sweetest and most funny souls I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing. You will be deeply missed by many. Larry, I’m sending you all the love and a giant hug from NC.
Ben Donn
20 Feb 2025Quennie for the short time I got to know you, I realized just how special Larry and you are! Truely an inspiration to us all. We love you and your memory will continue to inspire us all!
Michelle Montgomery
20 Feb 2025Dearest Darlene, I thank you for the love and light you brought to my life ❤️
Her kindness knew no bounds enter sweet spirit touch the lives of all she knew.
Michelle Montgomery
20 Feb 2025I am praying for Larry and all who have been touched by the life of Darlene as they grieve her passing.
Cast your burden on the Lord, And He shall sustain you.
Psalm 55:22
Linda March
21 Feb 2025My thoughts and prayers are with Larry and the Gates Family. Darlene was a very special lady and will be missed by us all.
Tom & Susan Hagan
21 Feb 2025Darlene was such a fun lovely person! We always had a great time with her and Larry. She will be missed! Our love and hugs to Larry and her family.
Kathryn Mast
22 Feb 2025I’m so sorry to hear that Darlene has passed. She was such a lovely person. We share a love of genealogy and exchanged photos and information. My thoughts and prayers are you.
Trudi Hesch
22 Feb 2025I’m so saddened to hear of the Queen’s passing. What a beautiful, talented, amazing woman. My heart goes out to all. I am honored to have witnessed seeing the true love between Larry and the Queen. I enjoyed the stories they shared. I believe she is at peace and in the arms of her parents.
Tanja Fransen
22 Feb 2025Larry, Tim and the whole family,
I loved her. From the moment I met her as an 11 year old in Westcreek. She was beautiful, funny, full of grace and laughter. I still have one of her kitten drawings she did. I loved what she taught me about Westcreek history as well. Sending you all huge hugs. She is loved and will be remembered with nothing both fondness and a smile. ?
CRYSTAL Williams
23 Feb 2025Darlene, you were the most special person. Loved by all your girls through the years. My deepest condolences & lots of prayers for Larry & the family. Queen, you were a bright shining star that illuminated all the lives you touched over the years. ✨️
Rebecca Martos
23 Feb 2025I met Darlene at one of Tim’s shows, and we became friends. I really enjoyed her spirit. I followed her on FB for years. I am sad to see her go. Such a bright light. Sad to see her go. My condolences ?
Bob & Phyllis "Who"
5 Mar 2025Larry, we are so sorry to hear about Darlene. We will always remember the memories of the times we all shared together, over the years, at Horse Creek and Deckers. Though the pain of her loss will ease with time, her smile and her love for life will live forever in our hearts!