Darlene was born on July 22, 1937, the daughter of John and Opal (Knight) Bulman of Des Moines, Iowa. She graduated from Des Moines High School and soon met Richard Hendricks. The two were married for a total of 62 years and had four daughters.

Darlene worked at home raising the girls, teaching the girls to be strong, independent individuals, and pushing them to be the best version of themselves. When she was not busy caring for the girls, chasing Richard, or caring for the home, she could be found at her sewing machine. Sewing and crafting was her gift, she made numerous crafts, quilts, and the little dolls that covered Renuzit air fresheners that adorned many people’s homes. Darlene loved snowmobiling in the winters and the cabin in Browerville during the summers.  Darlene helped Richard retire in 1992 moving back to Browerville from Cottage Grove.  She loved the land and made sure Richard made the yard smooth enough for croquet.

Darlene passed away at the age of 84. She is survived by her children, Shellie Rae Hendricks, Cheryl Ann Hendricks, Connie Louise (Gerald) Gruba, and Renee Hendricks (Douglas) Marsh. grandchildren: Melissa Doke, Richard Herchenhahn, Sophia Marsh and Richard Marsh; great-grandchildren, Jada, Blake, and Leda.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Richard; parents; and all of her siblings.