Darlene Berkel
Darlene Elaine (Leonard) Berkel, 77, of Scottville, formerly of Muskegon, passed away on Friday, September 19, 2025.
She was born on November 7, 1947, in Muskegon, to Ivan and Mary Ann (Bowman) Leonard. Darlene married James Junior Berkel in 1967, with whom she shared a loving and joyful life until his passing.
Darlene graduated from Muskegon High School in 1965 and later earned a business degree from Baker College. For 25 years she was the manager at the Fraternal Order of Eagles. She later worked other managerial jobs before retiring in 2010.
Darlene was known for her fun, witty, and extremely loving personality. Her hobbies included hunting, golf, boating, and watching wildlife. Most of all, she cherished spending time with her family, especially her great-grandson Krew, and her grand dogs Marlin, Magnum, Zara, and Opal.
Darlene is survived by a loving family: her son, Brent (Lisa Squeteri) Berkel; daughter, Lezleigh (Brandon) Gunia; grandchildren, Masyn (Hunter) Smith and Kody Berkel; great-grandson, Krew Smith; bonus son, Timothy Triscari; brother, Doug (Terry) Leonard; sister, Sharon (Robert) Brady; and brother, Dan (Pam) Leonard.
Darlene was preceded in death by her husband, Jim Berkel; parents, Ivan and May Ann Leonard; and sister, Diane Lovrencevic.
A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, November 9, at Mona Lake Boat Club, in Muskegon, from 1 to 3 p.m.
Arrangements were entrusted to Grace Funeral Home and Cremation Services, www.GraceCremations.com.
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