Darleen Groves

Darleen (nee Hunter) Highstrom-Groves, of Siren, WI, passed away peacefully Saturday night, August 27, 2016, at Birchwood Health Care Center in Forest Lake, MN, after a long battle with Parkinson's Disease. Born in Burnett County, WI, on March 9, 1932, Darleen was the daughter of the late Glenn and Genevieve (nee Wade) Hunter. Darleen was married to Virgil Highstrom for 30 years with whom she had 4 children. She later married Ralph Groves, with whom she spent many happy years until his passing in 2014. Darleen attended Superior Vocational College, where she received her LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) degree. She worked for a time at the Frederic Hospital and later at Siren Schools as school health nurse and guidance secretary. She was active in many activities, including what she referred to as the 4 Bs: Bingo, Bowling, Bridge and Blackjack! Upon retirement, Darleen and Ralph purchased a 15-passenger van in which they picked up passengers and took them to Bingo at various sites. She enjoyed this venture immensely, as she and Ralph made many lasting friendships. Darleen is survived by her four children: Jilene Perreten, Greg Highstrom (Holly), Kevin Highstrom and Todd Highstrom (April); four siblings; three brothers: Ned Hunter (Helen), Dean Hunter (Donna), and Roger (Sharon), and a sister, Flora Holmberg. She is also survived by seven grandchildren: Lance Ramsdell (Terah), Richelle Quirk (Tom), Brianne Perreten (Michael), Tiffany Highstrom, Gregory Highstrom (Bree), Lindsey Millard (Jeff), Stephanie Miles (Aaron); and six great-grandchildren: Addison Quirk, Brady Quirk, Aiden Miles, Valerie Millard, Harrison Millard and Josie Ramsdell; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by parents, Glenn and Genevieve Hunter; infant brother, Raleigh Randy; husband, Virgil Highstrom; husband, Ralph Groves; son-in-law, Chuck Toenges; and infant granddaughter, Jaidan Quirk. She will be sadly missed by family and friends. She was loved by many. Services will be held Saturday, September 10, 2016, at the Siren United Methodist Church. Visitation will begin at 10 am. with the memorial service at 11 a.m. with Pastor Eddie Crise officiating. Fellowship luncheon to follow. Arrangements have been entrusted with Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Siren, Wisconsin. Online condolences may be expressed at www.swedberg-taylor.com.