Darlene was born on October 4, 1966, in Milwaukee, WI, the daughter of Richard and Carol Zwieschowski. She graduated from Washington High School (Germantown, WI) in 1984. In 1991, Darlene graduated magna cum laude from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Darlene returned to school and was currently working towards her master’s degree in accounting at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
While still in high school, Darlene obtained her first job at Chi-Chi’s near Northridge Mall, and it was while working there, that she forged many lifelong friendships. Darlene was also employed with Aetna and soon after, she met Mark Mingo with whom she shared 24 years of marriage. Darlene possessed many passions in life, none stronger than her love for her two children, Chelsea and Mark, Jr. Darlene exemplified what a mother should be. She was a loving, dedicated mother who was always there for her children and never missed any of their activities. Darlene loved spending as much time as she could with her kids and was always there to drive Chelsea to ballet or Mark, Jr. to school on a daily basis. Darlene was a person of strong Christian faith and an active member of Cornerstone Church in Grafton, WI where she volunteered her time by preparing and bringing in snacks which have been credited in helping the fellowship grow.
In her free time, Darlene was an avid biker and runner and enjoyed spending time on the Ozaukee Interurban Trail, rain or shine. Darlene also enjoyed gardening, especially planting flowers. Darlene found joy in cooking and was always open to trying something new. Christmas held a special place in her heart. Darlene loved everything Christmas, from the decorating, to the music, to the Christmas specials she grew up with. One of her favorite Christmas traditions was baking scores of Christmas cookies to share with others.
In life, Darlene possessed an amazing spirit and her smile, laughter, and unique sense of humor could light up a room, just as her taco dip and countless varieties of cookies could light up anyone’s appetite. Darlene was also fair and honest and was someone you could always confide in. She never rushed to judgement and was always accepting of others. Darlene was a tireless worker and gave every ounce of energy to whatever task that was in front of her.
Darlene is survived by her daughter Chelsea, her son Mark, Jr., parents Richard and Carol Zwieschowski, sister Christine DiIulio, brothers David Zwieschowski, Jeff (Cara) Zwieschowski, and Kevin (Kelly) Zwieschowski. She is also dearly loved by many nieces and nephews that all held a special place in her heart. Darlene served as a beacon of light to all of us blessed with knowing her and that light will continue to shine in us all. Darlene, you will be missed, but definitely not forgotten.
Funeral Services will be held on Friday, May 31, 2019 for Darlene at Cornerstone Church, 1187 Falls Road., in Grafton at 6 p.m. Visitation will be held at church on Friday from 3 p.m to 5:45 p.m. Memorials to Cornerstone Church in Darlene’s memory appreciated. Mueller Funeral Home & Crematory in Cedarburg is honored to assist her family.