Darlene Homburg, age 88, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. On a beautiful farm in Lonsdale, MN, Darlene and Otto lived a life filled with love, laughter, family, and cherished traditions.
Darlene was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Otto Homburg; her granddaughter, Caitlin Kelly, her parents, and her brothers, George Blum and Gary Blum; brother-in-law, Doug Meyer and sister-in-law, Silvana Blum.
She is survived by her daughters, Cheryl Hennen, Janell (Jeff) Franta, and Michelle Homburg; grandchildren Mallory (Dustin) Dingman, Jozlyn (Tony) O’Connell, and Jared (Molly) Franta; and great-grandchildren Declan Dingman, and Braelynn and Beau O’Connell; siblings, Donna Meyer, James Blum, and David (Rebecca) Blum; as well as her nieces, nephews, other extended family and friends.
Darlene had many passions including gardening, and crafting. She also was an exceptional baker and won baking contests and awards for her delicious pastries. Her baking was more than a talent—it was one of the ways she shared her love with others.
Proud of her German heritage, Darlene was also a wonderful polka dancer. She and Otto loved to dance together, and the two traveled throughout many states in their motor home to attend dance festivals. Their love of dancing created many wonderful memories and was a special part of their life together.
Above all, Darlene loved her family deeply. She had a gift for making holidays feel truly magical, especially Easter and Christmas. Cookie baking, decorating the house with beautiful things, and creating a gorgeous Christmas tree were treasured traditions she poured her heart into. She made those celebrations special, filling them with warmth, beauty, laughter, and memories her family will carry with them forever.
Darlene had a smile and laugh that could light up the room. Her warmth, joy, and love made everyone around her feel welcome. She leaves behind not only a family who loved her dearly, but a lifetime of memories that will continue to bring smiles and comfort for years to come.
Darlene will be deeply missed and forever loved. Her legacy lives on in her family, in the traditions she created, in the recipes she shared, and in every celebration that brings them together.
Rest peacefully, Mom. Your smile, your laughter, and your love will remain in our hearts forever.
Funeral Services for Darlene will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at the St. John's Lutheran Church of Montgomery. Visitation will be held from 4-8 p.m. on Friday, September 4 at the Bierman, Benson, & Langehough Funeral Home of Northfield as well as one hour prior to the service at church on Saturday from 10-11 a.m. Darlene will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery of Lonsdale. Reception following the service on Saturday to be held at the Lonsdale American Legion Post 586, 115 2nd Ave NW, Lonsdale, MN, 55046.
Arrangements are with the Bierman, Benson, & Langehough Funeral Home of Northfield. www.northfieldfuneral.com