Darlene Melvin

Darlene “Dolly” Marie (Peterson) Melvin, 78, of Mankato, passed away on Friday, March 27, 2020 at Oak Lawn Rehabilitation Center in Mankato, after a long battle with breast cancer. A private burial was held at Calvary Cemetery in Mankato with a celebration to be held later. To sign guestbook and leave a condolence, use www.mankatomortuary.com.

Darlene was born October 18, 1941 to Ervin and Marie (Goble) Peterson in Gaylord, Minnesota. She grew up on the family farm and moved to St. Peter while in grade school.  She graduated from St. Peter High School in 1959. Darlene was united in marriage to Warren Melvin on May 6, 1961 in Mankato. This union was blessed with three children, Ricky, Susan and John. They later divorced.  Years later, she was blessed with daughter, Lori.  In 1979, Darlene met her long-time friend and companion, Gerald “Jerry” Baker and spent 40 happy years together. She enjoyed traveling, listening to Elvis Presley, reading, doing crosswords, and most of all spending time with her family.

Left to cherish her memory include her four children, Ricky (Tammy) Melvin of Mankato, Susan (Mark) Rutten of Mankato, John Melvin and friend, Jackie of Mankato, Lori (Tim) Manley of Mankato; brother, Duane (Arlene) Peterson of St. Peter, sisters, Ruby (Daniel) Archer of St. Peter, Linda Hoppe of North Mankato; sisters-in-law, Helen Peterson of St. Peter, Velora Wilson of Lincoln, NE; seven grandchildren, Nicole (Bryan) Haley, Ryan (Mercy) Melvin, David Brand, Heidi and Nicholas Rutten, Kara and Kylie Melvin; seven great grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; longtime friend and companion, Jerry Baker; grandson, Konner Melvin; brothers, Leonard Peterson, Darrell Peterson, Robert Peterson; brother-in-law, Gilbert Hoppe; and nephew, David Peterson.

The Celebration of Darlene’s Life will be scheduled at a later date.  As a family, we appreciate everyone’s kindness at this time.  We look forward to sharing and remembering stories when we are able to be together.  Mankato Mortuary assisting with arrangements.