Darla Jean Veneklase, age 66, passed away peacefully at her home in Sparta, MI on Sunday, June 13, 2021. She fought a courageous battle with cancer.
Darla was born on April 29,1955 in Sault Ste. Marie, MI and was the daughter of Willard and Laura Beseau Frechette. She graduated from Cedar Springs High School, where she met Marsha Howard in the 6th grade. Marsha was her Best Bud and stayed by her side, taking the greatest care of her during her fight.
Before she became an amazing grandma, Darla was a server for many years at The Clock Restaurant. Here, she touched several hearts and made many memories with her customers and co-workers. She loved the Detroit Tigers and spending time with family and friends up at her camp, “Fern Gully”. Some of her other passions include the following: feeding/watching the birds; floating down the river; listening to music in her rocking chair; bowling; puzzles; cooking for others. She was an avid collector of all things Coca-Cola and loved her ladybugs.
Darla is survived by her husband, Jim Veneklase; children: Rene’ Havens, Theresa (Tom) McKenney, Jamie Arch, Variety (James) Tate; step-daughter, Amy (Joe) TerMors; siblings: Thomas Frechette, Marc (Mary) Frechette, Daryl Frechette, Jan (Clare) Patterson, Alison Duran; brother-in-law, David Jinkins; stepmom, Barbara Frechette; grandchildren: Danielle Arch, Brett McKenney, Jenna Arch, and Kelsey McKenney; many neices and nephews.
Darla is preceded in death by her mother and father; brothers, Terry Frechette and Mace Frechette; sisters, Sandra Jinkins Frechette and Bonnie King.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday September 11, 2021 at the Sparta Civic Center from 1-3pm.
Leave Your Tribute Message
I became a friend of Darla in about 1977. She was so fun to be around. She had two daughters when I met her and soon had three. I loved being with those sweet girls too. A lot of love! 😘 We always played the music loud when we could! Never got too far from the music. ❣️
- Michelle Emmorey
I met Darla working at Mel Trotter. She was so full of life and we always had fun at work. At times, I would meet up with Darla at Maxines for breakfast. I really enjoyed those times. I will miss her and was Blessed to have met her. Our Mel Trotter get togethers won’t be the same without her.
- Kathryn Martin
I work with Darla at the clock restaurant I remember how close she was to her girls and the many friends she had there. I’m so sorry for your loss girls.
- Lorraine Pizzo
Darla was so full of life, she did enjoy her time with friends .She extended her heart and home to help those in need. Darla will be missed
- david l jinkins
I’ve known and loved Darla since I was 15, she was always a terrific person and I’ll miss her….
- george febo
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