Darlene Flategraff

Darlene A. Flategraff, age 87, passed away unexpectedly at her home on September 20, 2021. She was born in a car near Hadley, MN, during a snowstorm to Albert and Anna (Swanson) Ost. As a child she moved to Pequot Lakes where she attended the rural Clover Hill school and the Washington High School in Brainerd. She married Elmer on July 2, 1955 and enjoyed 51 years of marriage. Darlene passed away 15 years to the day from Elmer's passing. She served as the City of Lake Shore Clerk for over 20 years starting in 1956. She managed the family farm for many years while Elmer worked for Northern Pacific railroad.

Darlene was strong in every storm and her love for family and friends was apparent in everything she said and did. She liked nothing more than to invite everyone to the table with coffee and treats and then convince them to play cards and games. She always enjoyed spending time with her family and friends as well as crocheting, traveling, gardening, cooking, canning, and in later years the many puzzles and word finds. For many of us it will be hard to imagine a world where Darlene isn't around, but we will especially be thinking of her when flowers start to bloom, during the holidays that she always hosted with a house overflowing, when a treat becomes the first food eaten and when a new family member is born.

Darlene was preceded in death by her husband, Elmer; her parents, Albert and Anna Ost; and brothers, Harvey and Ronald Ost. She is survived her children:  Debra (Rodney) Mullenix, Duane (Deanna) Flategraff, Terry Flategraff, Becky Parker (Greg Arvig), Scott (Julie) Flategraff, and Lori Flategraff; as well as 16 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren.

Visitation will be 5-7 pm on Thursday, Sept. 23, at Kline Funeral Home in Pequot Lakes. Funeral services will be at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Pequot Lakes on Friday, Sept. 24 at 1 pm, with visitation starting at noon.