Darlene Gruening

Darlene "Dar" Gruening, 85, peacefully entered into the loving arms of her Savior on February 13, 2018 at her home under Asera Care Hospice Services. She was born and raised in Schofield on September 3, 1932 to the late Randley and Agatha (Means) Wendorf. The family attended St. Peter Lutheran Church in Schofield, where Dar was baptized, confirmed and eventually married. She married her high school sweetheart, Robert Gruening, at St. Peter on May 5, 1951. Both Dar and Bob were proud to sing in the Senior Choir and were faithful members of the congregation who made "the walk" from the old church building to where it now stands on top of Grand Avenue. There was never a question as to what to do on Sunday morning; she would be found worshiping at church with their family. In her earlier years, Dar was a tremendous self-taught seamstress; she even sewed her own wedding gown. She was an excellent athlete as well, enjoying bowling and swimming and diving, starting as a four-year old. Many vacations and weekends were spent at her parents' cottage on South Blue Lake at Hazelhurst, doing what she loved most - swimming and water skiing. Dar and Bob made two trips to several European countries over the years, but a trip to Luther Land would remain as a trip she would never forget. Dar found her niche in life being a loving wife, tender mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, and a devoted friend. She shared her great sense of humor with everyone she met. Despite her health struggles, the love she shared with her family never faded and she remained faithful to her Savior. Her joy and passion for life live on in all those whose lives she touched. Dar is survived by her husband, Bob; sons Randy (Beth) and Scott (Faye); three grandchildren, Ryan Gruening, Preston Gruening and Kimberly Haugen; and four great-grandchildren, Kameron, Jaeden, Nathan, and Nickolas. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Don Wendorf; and brothers-in-law, Marvin Gruening and Melvin Gruening. A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, February 19, at St. Peter Ev. Lutheran Church, 1351 Grand Ave, Schofield. Rev. Walter C. Davidson and Rev. Jeffery P. Mahnke will officiate. Visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service at the church. Interment to follow at Pine Grove Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to St. Peter Ev. Lutheran Church. Brainard Funeral Home - Everest Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. Dar's family would like to especially thank Dr. Jensan and the Asera Care Hospice staff, "our angels sent from the Lord" for the tender care given to Dar and her family. Online condolences may be shared at www.brainardfuneral.com