Darlene Doris Tate

Darlene Doris Tate, 75, of Hartford, passed away suddenly, Friday, July 18, 2014 at her home.

Darlene was born Dec. 15, 1938 in Hartford, the daughter of Luella (Wesaw) Lewis. She was the loving mother of seven children, seven grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. Darlene was a tribal member of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians. She loved listening to music, mushroom hunting, having company come over and cruising with the kids. Her greatest joy was the love she had for all kinds of animals.

Darlene is survived by three daughters: Paula Vanlandingham of Hartford, Mary (Dan) Herron of Somerville, Tenn., and Leanne Tate of Kalamazoo. She is also survived by seven grandchildren, eight great grandchildren, two sisters – Mary Drake and Bonnie Drake, both of Hartford – a brother, Morris Lewis Jr. of Watervliet, and numerous other family members and friends.

Darlene was preceded in passing by her husband, Jimmy Tate; four sons: Steven Tate Sr., Michael Tate, Donnie Tate and Patrick Tate; a great-grandson, Samuel Hover; her mother, and a brother, Paul Dahlke.

The family will welcome friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 22, 2014 at the Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford, where at 7 p.m. a time of remembrance will be celebrated. Kim Bowie of the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah Witness of Lawrence will speak. As to Darlene's wishes, cremation has taken place and her ashes will be buried in Maple Hill Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Darlene's name may be made to any animal rescue organization of the donor's choice. Those wishing to leave condolences for the family may do so at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.