Darlene Ann Altes, 70 of Gifford, passed away at 2:18 a.m. Wednesday, May 19, 2021, at Country Health Nursing Home, Gifford.

A Homegoing Celebration will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 22, 2021 at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 108 E. Church Street, Gifford with Pastor Scott Guhl officiating. Burial will follow in Huls Cemetery, Gifford.

Visitation will be from 9-11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 22, at the church. Baier Family Funeral Services, Flatville is assisting the family with arrangements.

Darlene was born October 31, 1950 in Champaign the daughter of Reinhold and Anna Schlueter Hesterberg. She married Robert E. Altes March 1, 1986 at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Gifford. He survives.

Along with her husband, Bob, she is survived by four brothers, Eldon (Mary) Hesterberg, Karl (Sandy) Hesterberg, Earl (Sue) Hesterberg, Armin (Char) Hesterberg; a sister-in-law, Norma Hesterberg, all of Gifford and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Robert and Leonard Hesterberg and a nephew David Hesterberg.

Darlene graduated from Rantoul Twp. High School in 1968 and went on to receive a degree in education from Wartburg College, Iowa. She enjoyed her career as an Executive Assistant especially the years with the Community Foundation.

She and her husband have lived in Chatham for the past 35 years and returned to Gifford July 2020. Darlene was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Gifford and the Gideons Auxiliary. She enjoyed reading, traveling, music and playing the piano and organ. She was known for her prayer life.

Memorials may be made to the Gideons or Samaritan's Purse. Please share memories and condolences with the family at www.baierfuneralservices.com.