Darlene M. Baxter

Darlene was born April 24, 1925, in Iron Mountain, daughter of the late Frank and Frances (Coltz) Reindle. She married Kenneth L. Parent in 1940 and he preceded her in death on April 28, 1977. On Oct. 22, 1983, she married Robert “Eddie” Baxter and he preceded her in death on Dec. 3, 1995.

Darlene started out working for Modern Laundry, General Controls and Perfex prior to opening a restaurant, Popeye’s Cafe, which she operated for several years. She then started bartending at Dully’s Den, the Iron Mountain Bar, the Brave Bull, and the PlayGirl Lounge. Darlene enjoyed socializing and many friends she made over the 25 years she tended bar.

She was a volunteer at the senior center and a member of the Daughters of Isabella. Darlene had a good heart and always took good care of her customers and even helped the needy, making sure they had something to eat. She was an excellent cook and baker. Darlene loved entertaining and spending time with family and friends.

She is survived by her son, Kenneth (Pamela) Parent of Iron Mountain; step-children, Kathe (Harry) Oliva, Joanie (Brian) Lehto, Mary (Harry) Rahoi, Pete Baxter, Sandy (Dan) Oberthaler, Linda (Dana) Peterson, Laura Champagne, Ellen Baxter and Denise Haupt; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husbands, Darlene was also preceded in death by an infant son, David J. Parent and a daughter, Shirley Haupt; and two step-daughters, Patti Baxter Antonini and Cynthia Baxter.

Services for Darlene will be held next spring and will be announced.

Condolences to the family of Darlene Baxter may be expressed online at www.ernashfuneralhomes.com.

The family has entrusted the Erickson-Rochon & Nash Funeral Home with the arrangements.