Darlene T. Ketchum

Darlene T. Ketchum, age 61, of Swartz Creek, passed away on Sunday, November 24, 2024. Visitation will take place starting at 12pm until the time of the Memorial Service at 5pm on Monday, December 2, 2024, at Sharp Funeral Homes - Miller Road Chapel, 8138 Miller Road in Swartz Creek. Online condolences can be shared on her obituary page by visiting www.sharpfuneralhomes.com.

Darlene was born on November 27, 1962, in Durand, Michigan to the late Harold & Ira Wolverton. She graduated from Swartz Creek High School. She continued her education by earning her Associates Degree in nursing at Mott Community College. Darlene was employed as a nurse in the local area. Darlene excelled at being nurse as it was one of her God given talents to be a care giver. 

For anyone who knew Darlene, they knew her love for water; whether it was a lake, ocean, rain or thunderstorms. However, her favorite was her pool oasis in her backyard. It was always a production of opening her tiki bar come the warm weather after the winter months. Throughout the summer you would find her drink in hand floating in the pool to a great soundtrack. Her daughters and grandkids came over regularly for pool days and her grandchildren learned to swim at the expense of Darlene throwing them in the pool. As much as she enjoyed pool life; dancing was a close second. She also treasured the time spent with her family up north and those long dirt road trips without a care in the world. Darlene considered herself a great cook as she was always experimenting with new recipes. She was a Michigan girl through and through as she loved all things outdoors; always keeping an eye out for deer and other wildlife. Darlene spoiled her grandkids every chance she could. Above all her family will miss her dearly for making the holidays magical and her free-spirited ways as no one can fill her role of such a strong shoulder to lean on.

She is survived by her loving daughters, Nicole (Shayne) Ketchum and Breanna (Alex) Poppen; two grandchildren, Ryan & Kali; two brothers, Dennis & David (Larry) Wolverton and furry grand dogs, Frankie & Dutchess. Darlene is further survived by many other dear family members and friends too numerous to list but never forgotten.

In addition to her parents, Darlene was preceded in death by, her sisters, Diane Wolverton and Dawn Williams.