STEVEN L. DARLING, 79
Retired United Methodist Minister, Steven L. Darling, age 79 of Lodi, CA passed away on Tuesday, April 25th, 2017. Steven passed quietly during his sleep with his wife, Ruth, by his bedside in the ICU after he had suffered a stroke.
Steven was a graduate of Rock Island High School and of Augustana College, Rock Island, Ilinois. His degree in Music, majoring in Voice was a passion that he enjoyed his entire life. In college he traveled with the Augustana Choir performing in many U.S. States and also in other countries. His brother, Darrell, once remarked how proud he was of his older brother singing at Carnegie Hall. During his years living in Lodi, he sang with the Stockton Chorale both locally and in travels to other countries to perform. Steven also participated in supporting the Sacramento Symphony and Sacramento Opera organizations.
Steven was active and enjoyed being outdoors most of his life with family travel and backpacking trips being part of many of his Springs and Summers. At age 40, he climbed Mt. Whitney. He was an avid golfer for most of his life. Steven enjoyed spending time with family and friends and was active in Rotary International, Stockton Zen Sangha, his local coffee club, and other groups. If he wasn’t attending a function, meeting or performance he was most likely home reading a vast quantity of books or his favorite newspapers and magazines.
Steven is survived by his loving wife Ruth of 57 years. They were married in Funks Grove, “Church & Chapel in the Trees” Illinois on June 12, 1960. Funks Grove has since been made a National Natural Landmark and Nature Preserve.
Steven is survived by his younger brothers Lowell, Darrell, and Paul; children Kevin, Yvonne, and Cheri; grandchildren Christopher, Sarah, Johnathan, Emily, Jacob, and Allison; and great-grandchild Aiden; as well as many other loving relatives.
The memorial service will be held First United Methodist Church. The service will be on Saturday, May 6th at 11:00am. The church is located at 200 W Oak St, Lodi, CA 95240.
In lieu of flowers, his wife, Ruth, asks that donations may be made to your choice of First United Methodist Church of Lodi, Habitat for Humanity, or your favorite charity.
Please sign the guest book at www.lodinews.com/guestbook.