Mary Darliene Vrieze-Ask, 86, of Fountain, passed away on April 13, 2017, at the Gundersen Harmony Care Center.
Darliene was born on January 9, 1931 to Lawrence and Mary (Finley) Wurtzler in rural Chatfield.
Darliene grew up in Chatfield and graduated from the Chatfield High School. She furthered her education by attending Normal School and taught for several years in country schools outside of Chatfield. Darliene married Burdette Vrieze of Wykoff on June 24, 1951. Burdette and Darliene resided in Fountain for most of their married lives. Burdette, Darliene’s first husband passed away at an early age and Darliene later married Maynard Ask of Lanesboro.
Throughout her life, Darliene loved working with children while working as a Title-I Paraprofessional for the Fillmore Central School District, teaching Sunday school, and babysitting in her home. Darliene’s abiding passions were her church, family, and friends. Nothing gave her greater joy than cooking and entertaining, visiting over a cup of tea, spending time with her children and grandchildren, and actively serving on various church committees. She had a fondness for dancing, playing cards, reading, and music. She had a beautiful singing voice and enjoyed singing in church as well as for weddings and funerals. Darliene had a kind spirit; she cared deeply about others and loved to socialize right up to the last days of her life.
Darliene is lovingly remembered by her children: Steven (Toni Shaw) Vrieze, Keith (Lillie) Vrieze, and Gail (Ken) Kerr; her grandchildren: Bradley (Elizabeth Sanders) Vrieze, Bonnie Vrieze, Rachel (Andrew) Elbin, Jared Kerr, and Andrea Kerr; her great-grandchild, Cailyn Vrieze; and her brother, Donald (Mary Sue) Wurtzler.
She was preceded in death by her father and mother, Larry and Mary Wurtzler; her first husband, Burdette Vrieze; and her second husband, Maynard Ask.
The family wishes to thank all those who lovingly cared for Darliene at the Gundersen Harmony Care Center. Your compassion and dedication gave Darliene great joy during her life at the center.
A Christian funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, April 19, 2017, at the Chatfield United Methodist Church, with Rev. Deanna Woodward officiating. Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. at the Riley Funeral Home in Chatfield on Tuesday, April 18, 2017.
Riley Funeral Home in Chatfield is assisting the family with arrangements. To share a condolence with the family, please visit www.rileyfuneralhomes.com.