Obituary: Darlene Nielsen, 89, of Ludington

Darlene Nielsen

Darlene Ann (Fauble) Nielsen, 89, of Ludington, passed away on Sunday, October 18, 2026.

Darlene was born on July 11, 1937, in Onekama, the daughter of the late Arlie and Marie (Edmondson) Fauble. On April 2, 1987, she married Patrick Nielsen.

Darlene cherished spending time with family and friends, it could be a Sunday drive to visit her parents, a holiday with family or a picnic in the backyard. Memorable activities could include playing board games or a competitive game of cards at the kitchen table with laughter and joy. And when it came to mealtime you knew you were in for a treat, the day always started with an amazing breakfast. The menu was impressive, pancakes, french toast, waffles, oatmeal or eggs and toast. And it did not stop at breakfast, it could be a simple lunch with chicken al a king and biscuits or an amazing holiday feast with turkey, dressing and mashed potatoes. Oh, and let’s not forget the legendary potato salad and those tasty raisin bars for dessert.

Darlene enjoyed her Tigers, Lions and Red Wings routinely texting with her sister to discuss baseball strategy. Darlene and Pat were always looking forward to their next trip to Las Vegas for a weekend of video draw poker and the routine royal flush. Family and friends would refer to a trip to casino as Darlene “going to work”.

Darlene is survived by her children, Mike (Cathy) Gunberg, Diane McCallum, and Gary (Rachael) Gunberg; grandchildren, Gary, Martha, Matt, Alex, and Ana; great-grandchildren, Henry, Chloe, Alex, Aria, and Ellowyn; sisters, Phyllis Fauble Cook, and Janice Fauble Kuenzer; and extended family members, Joel (Sarah) Nielsen, Jeffrey (Gretchen) Nielsen, Gary (Susie) Nielsen.

Darlene was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Patrick Nielsen; brother Harold; sisters, Gayle and Barbara; and granddaughter, Amanda Gunberg.

A visitation will be held on Monday, October 26, 2026, from 10 a.m. to noon at Grace Funeral Home, with burial to follow at 1 p.m. at Lakeview Cemetery in Ludington.

 Memorial contributions can be directed to Elara Caring.

Arrangements were entrusted to Grace Funeral Home and Cremation Services, www.GraceCremations.com.