Darline Gleason

Darline Hazel (Spore) Gleason, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on September 11, 2023, after a short battle with cancer, surrounded by her loving family in Shullsburg, WI. She was born on December 12, 1939, in Apple River, IL, and later settled in Shullsburg. Darline was a graduate of Shullsburg High School and was known for her strong work ethic and dedication to her family. She and her husband proudly worked side by side on their farm, creating a home filled with love and warmth. After years of farming, Darline worked at the Shullsburg Home and in Home Heath Care. After retiring, she provided transportation for the Amish and formed life-long friendships. Darline's life was marked by her deep love for her family. She was the beloved wife to Michael "Mike" Gleason, and the devoted mother to six children: Denise (Steve) Leitzinger, Lisa (Larry) Schwantes, Lori Nethery, Bernard Gleason, Robert (Kim) Gleason and Michelle (Marty) Rood. Darline's family continued to grow with the addition of 25 grandchildren, 39 great-grandchildren, and the anticipated arrival of her first great-great-grandchild in January 2024. Darline is also survived by her brother, Robert (Cheryl) Spore, sister-in-law, Gloria Spore, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, Orville and Hazel (Walton) Spore, her brother, Orville "Sonny" Spore, and a son-in-law, Steve Nethery. Each family member will remember Darline for her loving, kind, and courageous spirit that shone through in everything she did. Darline's interests and hobbies were a reflection of her love for her family. She took immense joy in watching her grandchildren and great-grandchildren play sports, whether on the field or in the stands, she was their biggest cheerleader, that will be deeply missed. A passionate Packer fan, she enjoyed watching games and cheering on her favorite team. She had a fondness and keen mind for cross-stitching, word finds, and jigsaw puzzles that showcased her patience with determination and attention to detail. Darline also had a beautiful collection of windchimes, each piece a testament to her love for life's simple pleasures. Her love for travel was evident in the numerous trips and family vacations she embarked on. She believed in the importance of making memories and strived to create unforgettable moments for her family during these trips. She cherished every moment she spent with her family. In remembrance of Darline Hazel (Spore) Gleason, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and the precious moments she shared with all who knew her. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those she touched, and her memory will continue to inspire love and kindness in those she so dearly loved. Darline will be deeply missed, but her spirit will remain with us, guiding us and reminding us of the enduring power of love, kindness, and family. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, September 22, 2023 at 11:00 A.M. at St. Matthew's Catholic Church (344 N. Judgement St., Shullsburg) with Fr. Peter Lee officiating. Burial will be in St. Matthew's Cemetery. A visitation will be held Thursday, September 21, 2023, from 4:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. with a rosary being prayed at 3:30 P.M. at Erickson Funeral Home (235 N. Judgement St., Shullsburg). Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com. For those who prefer, a memorial fund has been established in Darline's name.