Darline Bezug: 1937-2023
Darline Bezug was born on Jan. 11, 1937, to parents Ted and Alinda Guthmiller in Yankton, S.D. She went to be with the Lord peacefully after a short illness, surrounded by family, on June 5, 2023, in Lodi, Calif. She was 86.
Darline grew up on the family farm in Menno, S.D., and graduated from Menno High school. After high school she worked for a short time as a telephone operator and for the Farmers Union.
Darline first met Delbert Bezug when she was out having a good time at the local hang-out with her girlfriend. Delbert, who had recently returned to Menno after completing his service in the US Navy, was at the same place with his good friend. Their eyes met and they were introduced to each other. This chance meeting began a courtship that grew into a loving relationship. Delbert and Darline were married on Nov. 11, 1956, in Menno.
Their two daughters, Cindy and Shelly were born in South Dakota and in 1962, Delbert, Darline and their young family moved to Lodi for a better life. Delbert and Darline were inseparable during their 67 years of marriage. While Delbert worked to support the family, Darline remained a stay-at-home mom, a job that she truly loved. After their daughters were married, Darline played a vital role in caring for and supporting her three grandchildren, in any way needed from childhood to adulthood. She was also a proud great-grandmother of five.
Darline attended church her entire life. Her faith in God was evident to everyone that knew her by the way she lived her life. She and Delbert attended Emanuel Lutheran Church for over 60 years.
Darline is survived by her husband, Delbert; daughters Cindy (Kenton) Bauer and Shelly (Elliott) Grauman; three grandchildren: Levi (Kellee) Willhite, Jillian Bauer, Chelsea (Josh) Saner; five great-grandchildren: Jaxon, Mason and Paityn Willhite, Emery and Eleanor Saner. Darline is also survived by two sisters, Janet (Daryl) Heckenlaible and Connie (Lonnie) Herrboldt. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
A Celebration of Life was held Saturday, June 17, in Lodi at Emanuel Lutheran Church.
