Darlene Marie Larsen (Malsack), age 82, of Kenosha, passed away on November 24th, 2025 at Brookside Care Center.

She was born in Kenosha to the late Roman and Anna Malsack. She attended local schools before receiving her bachelor’s degree in teaching. On April 6th, 1968 she married the love of her life, Kenneth Larsen, at First Presbyterian Church, Kenosha and spent the rest of her life with him.

She worked as a teacher for several years in Zion, and at Durkee Elementary, then left the profession to stay home and raise her family. When her children were old enough, she returned to teaching, working at Holy Rosary School for 22 years until her retirement in 2007. Darlene and Ken later moved to The Villages, Florida for 4 years. Although they enjoyed life in The Villages, they ultimately decided to move back to Kenosha to spend more time with their family.

In her spare time, Darlene loved watching the Milwaukee Brewers and Green Bay Packers. She loved cooking Sunday Dinner for her family and was famous for her spaghetti and her cheesy potatoes at family gatherings.

Darlene is survived by her husband of 57 years, Kenneth Larsen; her sons Scott (Jodi) Larsen of Kenosha, Brian Larsen of LaCrosse, and Tim (Kristin) Larsen of Appleton; and by 8 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren, all of whom she was very proud.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Darlene’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Brookside Care Center, and to the staff of Hospice Alliance, for caring for Darlene through her final days with decency and compassion.

Per Darlene’s wishes, no services will be held. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.