Darlene Delores Croson, age 88, of Wilton, passed away Monday, June 22, 2026, at MercyOne Genesis Medical Center, Davenport. A funeral service was held at 11 a.m., Monday, June 29, at Bentley Funeral Home, Wilton. A visitation was held from 10–11 a.m., prior to the service at the funeral home. A graveside service was held at 1:30 p.m., Monday, June 29, at Memorial Park Cemetery, Muscatine. Memorials may be made to the Wilton Ambulance. Online condolences may be left at www.bentleyfuneralhome.com.
Darlene was born on July 15, 1937, in Iowa, the daughter of Reinhart and Pearl (Jahr) Giese. She attended Wilton High School, where she enjoyed playing basketball. On July 15, 1955, Darlene was united in marriage to the love of her life, Marvin Croson, in Muscatine. Together they shared nearly 57 years of marriage until Marvin's passing on May 1, 2012.
Darlene and Marvin owned and operated Croson Locker in Mediapolis from 1963 until 1970. Following that chapter of her life, Darlene worked at Louis Rich in West Liberty and later at CDS in Wilton. She was a member of the Night Owl Camping Club in Mediapolis, where she and Marvin spent many enjoyable weekends camping with friends. She was also a member of the Women of the Moose in Muscatine. Darlene looked forward to gathering with friends for afternoon coffee at Chandler Pointe, sharing stories, laughter, and companionship. In quieter moments, she enjoyed relaxing with word search puzzles, a pastime that kept her mind sharp and brought her hours of enjoyment.
An Iowa Hawkeye fan, Darlene rarely missed watching Iowa men's and women's basketball. She especially treasured holi-days spent surrounded by family, creating memories that will be cherished for generations. She and Marvin also enjoyed wintering in Arkansas, where they made many lasting friendships and enjoyed warmer days together.
Darlene will be lovingly remembered by two children, Greg (Shelley) Croson of Wilton, and Kimberly (Darryl) Ewer of Dunlap, Ill.; three grandchildren, Ashley (Brian) Bishop, Austin (Katie) Croson and Kendall Croson; two great-grandchildren, Marli and Murphy Croson; and two sisters, Linda Pond of Texas and Cindy (John) Stockton of Colorado.
Darlene was preceded in death by her husband, Marvin; and a brother, Larry Giese.
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