Darlene was born in Allentown PA to her parents Alfred and Erna Gigler. She is survived by her husband Charles E Ekholm of 66 years and her daughters Charlene Hracs (Alex) and Alice Scolpini (Timothy) and her sister Deanna Gigler.

Her 5 grandchildren: Erika Moss (Billy) Amanda Rose (Chris) Wayne Scolpini {Erinn} Domenick Scolpini {Sarah} and Jared Scolpini.

Her 5 great-grandchildren Juliana Moss, Lily Scolpini, Finn Rose, Charlie & Nolan Scolpini.

She was predeceased in death by her parents Alfred & Erna Gigler & brother Fred Gigler.

Darlene graduated from the Grasslands Nursing Program as an LPN in 1974. She was very well known as the elementary school nurse for Putnam Valley Central School District for 27 years. She was Captain & EMT of Putnam Valley Volunteer Ambulance Corps as well as serving in various administrative positions, including recording secretary.

She enjoyed with her family & friends many camping trips & actually camped in 49 states except Alaska. Her most memorable trip was 18 days down the Colorado River in wooden dory boats. She was an AVID NY YANKEES BASEBALL FAN! She was an amazing hostess & loved cooking and another hobby was knitting & her favorite item was baby blankets.

The family will receive friends on Monday, June 10th, and Tuesday, June 11th from 2-4 & 6-8 pm at Heritage Funeral Home, Morrissey Drive, Putnam Valley. The funeral service will be on Wednesday at 11 am at the funeral home and interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Putnam Valley Ambulance Corps, PO Box 141, Putnam Valley, NY 10579.