Darlene Elaine Montz

Darlene Elaine Guderjan Montz, devoted mother, grandmother, wife and community member passed away suddenly on Sunday, January 20th, 2013. With a seemingly endless capacity for love and compassion, Darlene left every person in her life touched by her warmth. Born in Varna, Illiniois to Walter and Ella (Arndt) Guderjan, Darlene is survived by her husband Fred Montz, her sister Marilyn (Richard) Kemp, her brother Gordon Guderjan, her children Molly Evans, Mike Montz, Mary Powell and Jeanette Bates, and her grandchildren Brian, Lauren, Stephen, Griffin and Natalie, and her great-granddaughter Emi. She was preceded in death by a grandson, Jeffrey, and her brother, Lawrence.

Darlene attended Fairview one-room country school, and was valedictorian of her high school graduating class (of thirteen). Darlene was especially nurtured and encouraged by her aunts Frieda, Marie, and Rena Arndt. Ever a pioneering and courageous spirit, Darlene was the first in her family to graduate from college. Darlene earned her degree in Special Education from the University of Illinois where she was a part of 4-H House, Torch, Mortar Board, and a contributing reporter to the Daily Illini. She taught for a year in Palatine, Illinois and then accepted a position with the Yakima School District where she met her future husband Fred Montz. They were married on November 25, 1955.

Darlene went on to use her degree in education to teach in Special Education and Early Childhood programs, later branching out to provide support for parents via work with Project Home Base, as well as a column in the Yakima Herald-Republic called Parents as Partners. She initiated a program of public service announcements on several area radio stations, and co-authored the “Help for Parents” book series.

In 1995 Darlene and Fred moved to Port Orchard, Washington, where she continued her philanthropic community work through First Lutheran Community Church, countless local and national giving campaigns, and her service on the board of Project Family, Port Orchard.

Darlene will ever be remembered for her ability to bring people together, and to love unconditionally. She leaves in her wake a legacy of generosity and kindness beyond compare, and the ripples of her life will be felt for generations.
Memorial service will be at 1st Lutheran Community Church in Port Orchard, 1:00 pm Saturday, January 26, 2012. A memorial webpage can be accessed at www.rill.com . https://www.justgive.org/registries/memorial/donate/DarleneMontz