Darlene L. (Hoffman) Engbretson

Darlene L. Engbretson, 92, Waupaca, passed away Tuesday, March 11, 2025.  She was born August 2, 1932, in Park Falls, Wisconsin to Carl and Emma (Perlick) Hoffman. 

Darlene graduated from Waupaca High School, Class of 1950.  She married Robert Engbretson November 23, 1950. She worked many years in medical records at Riverside Medical Center in Waupaca, Wisconsin. She enjoyed her work, even returning several years after her official retirement to work part time for another decade or more.  She was proud to be the oldest employee at Riverside Medical Center when she finally retired – – for the second time! 

Darlene was an excellent seamstress who enjoyed sewing a variety of clothing: casual, formal, costumes, and even swimsuits. She shared that gift with family, friends, neighbors, and her church.  Darlene also had excellent  "color memory" and a real talent for interior design, which included creating her own draperies and upholstering furniture. 

Darlene  is survived by her daughters Susan (Michael) Janssen of Green Bay, WI and Sandra Hupfer of De Pere, WI, nieces, nephews, family and friends.  She was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Emma Hoffman; her brother, Donald Hoffman; her sister Marie Jahnke; her former husband, Robert Engbretson, her son-in-law, Steven Hupfer, and other extended family.

Sue and Sandy wish to thank Bethany Home staff and Theda Care Hospice for their compassionate care throughout mom's lengthy journey in memory care and recent hospice care.  Mom was not a complainer and retained her sense of humor until the end, frequently saying "It’s a good thing gray hair and wrinkles don't hurt!"  After her 2014 stroke erased most of her short-term memory, she observed  "Just because I can't remember, doesn't mean I can't think."  Wise words, mom.  Your wit and wisdom will be missed.

A private family funeral will be held at a future date.  To send condolences please go to www.Maplecrest funeralhome.com. 

In lieu  of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to Trinity Lutheran Church."

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