Darlene Ann Walsh, age 93, of Phoenix Arizona, formerly of Helena passed away of natural causes November 16, 2023, in Phoenix. Darlene was born August 13, 1930, in Outlook, Montana to Edward and Eleanor Fink. She received her education through Sacred Heart Academy, Saint Patrick School of Nursing and Carroll College. Darlene and Martin “Muggs” Walsh were united in marriage May 10, 1952, in Missoula, Montana. Darlene and Martin made their home in Helena. Martin passed away in 1993.
Darlene’s career as a Registered Nurse included working at Saint Patrick’s Hospital in Missoula in 1951; Saint James Hospital in Butte 1952; And Blue Cross and Blue Shield from 1961-1988 in Helena. She was an active member of the American Red Cross and she and “Muggs” were active members of St. Mary Catholic Community in Helena.
Some of Darlene’s favorite hobbies and activities were being a volunteer for the American Red Cross, A Eucharistic Minister, served on the Board of Director of Westmont Corporation and ARC Regional Blood Services Board and playing Bridge. Darlene responded to natural disasters in Kauai, Hawaii and New Orleans, LA. She enjoyed and traveled extensively in the United States, Africa, New Zealand, Europe, Asia, and South America.
Darlene is survived by her great nieces, Erica Zaluskey, Dr. Jessie Dodge and Katie Brandow; nieces, Lori Duda and Lisa Stephenson; great great nieces, Jaime, Ava and Ruby Zaluskey and Neve and Liv Brandow, all in Oregon and sister-in-law, Patricia Fink.
In addition to her husband, Darlene was preceded in death by her brothers, Robert Fink, and Greg Fink; sister, Mary Jo Livix; her parents, Edward and Eleanor Fink and a niece Lynette Tovey.
A funeral Mass is scheduled for 12:10 p.m. Friday, May 24, 2024, at St. Mary Catholic Community, 1700 Missoula Avenue in Helena. Committal Rites and placement of her cremated remains will be in the Columbarium Niche at Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Helena immediately following Mass.
Those wishing to, may send memorials in Darlene’s name to St. Mary Catholic Community 1700 Missoula Avenue Helena, Montana 59601 or to an organization of the donor’s choice.
Carlsons says
Darlene is remembered by many of us younger Red Cross Volunteers as being especially kind in mentoring and sharing her keen knowledge. Her serious but fun spirit kept us bouyed up even in adverse Red Cross situations . She was the real deal in nurturing volunteering. I’m sure heaven will welcome her joy & laughter. My sympathies to her all family & friends.
May she rest in peace. Support yout local Red Cross.
Carol Carlson
NANCY ROTH says
I knew Darlene from the Helena Vigilantes Bridge Club. Darlene was always very helpful to me as I was a relatively new Bridge player. I also would see Darlene at the Helena Symphony as she was a Season Ticket holder.
May Darlene rest in peace.
Nancy Roth