Darlene Graupman
Darlene Graupman, 91 of Babbitt passed away Tuesday, January 24, 2023 after a short illness. She was born on the family farm near Winsted, MN, the oldest of 5 children. She married the love of her life, Earl Graupman on October 28, 2023 at 1st Lutheran Church in Glencoe, MN. The family lived in Plato, MN until 1956. From there, they moved to Babbitt, MN, as the new mining town was being built. There they raised their 3 children, Sandra (Kevin) Gibson, Steven (Linda) Graupman and Shelly (Darrell) Zillmer. Darlene was blessed with 10 Grandchildren, 20 Great-Grandchildren and 1 Great-Great Granddaughter with a 2nd on the way. Her life’s goal was to become a Great-Great Grandmother and she did it!
Predeceasing Darlene were her husband Earl, daughter Shelly Zillmer, parents Elwin W. and Julia B. (Paul) Studemann, her father and mother in-law, Harold and Hilda (Templin) Graupmann, Grandson Tyler Zillmer, siblings Loraine, Roger and Willis Stuedemann and numerous other relatives.
Darlene retired after many years working as a CNA at the Ely Nursing Home. She was a devoted member of Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, holding several offices in the Ladies Guild and LWML. Some of her many interests were sewing, gardening, canning, crafts, watching Twins games and cherished the time spent with family.
In June she moved from her home of 65 years to Babbitt Carefree Living. She adjusted well and continued her passion for sewing quilts for family and missions.
Funeral services were held at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, Babbitt, MN on Saturday, January 28, 2023. Burial took place at Amanda Cemetery Annex, Waasa Township, MN with a reception at the Junction in Babbitt. Arrangements were entrusted to Landmark Funeral Home, Virginia, MN.
