Darlene Lhotka, age 80, of Mahnomen, MN, died Tuesday, March 14, 2017, at her son's home in Tigard, OR.

Darlene Mae Benson was born August 27, 1936, in Battle Lake, MN, the daughter of Clarence and Olga (Anderson) Benson. Her toddler years we spent in Waubun, MN, and at the young age of 5, she moved with her mother to South St. Paul, MN after her parents divorced. Darlene grew up in South St. Paul where she attended school and graduated from Sibley High School with the class of 1955. Following high school, she was employed at Children's Hospital in St. Paul.

Darlene was united in marriage to Myron Lhotka on October 17, 1958, in St. Paul. The couple relocated and made their home on a farm north of Mahnomen, where she would spend the remainder of her life on the family farm. Darlene was active on the farm and in raising her 7 children. In the early 1990's, she began working for Lakes Homes in Mahnomen and was employed there until her retirement in 2008. Myron passed away in September of 2004 and Darlene remained on the farm.

Over the years, Darlene was active in her church, helping with the American Legion and the Birthday Club. She was a collector of Hallmark ornaments, Elvis, Minnesota Vikings and Denim Days. Darlene loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren whenever she could. Darlene will always be remembered for her faithfulness and passion towards the Minnesota Vikings. You will never know a stronger supporter for the Vikes.

Darlene is survived by 3 daughters: Brenda (Larry) Youngquist, Jamestown, ND, Lori (Craig) Miller, Glyndon, MN, and Jenny Lhotka, West Fargo, ND; 4 sons: Glenn (Brenda) and Craig (Colleen) all of Tigard, OR, Brian (Cynthia) Vancouver, WA, and David, Mahnomen, MN; her step mother, Gladys Benson, Detroit Lakes, MN; one brother, Robert Benson, Catheys Valley, CA; 19 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, one sister and two brothers.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, March 22nd, 2017, at 2:00 p.m. in First Lutheran Church, Mahnomen.
Visitation will be Tuesday, March 21st, 2017, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with a Prayer Service at 6:00 p.m. at the Anderson Family Funeral Home, Mahnomen, and one hour prior to the service at the church on Wednesday.