Darlene Marie Fletcher passed away peacefully on September 13, 2026, at the age of 84, following a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s. Her life was defined by a passion for learning, natural leadership, and deep devotion to her family and community.
A high school valedictorian and active youth athlete, Darlene married Tom Fletcher right after high school. Together, they spent 40 years farming, raising a family, and managing agricultural seed and chemical enterprises. She served her community tirelessly as an active member of First Lutheran Church, President of the Syracuse Highschool Band Parents Club, a Nebraska LEAD Program alumna, member and President of the Nebraska Soybean Association, member and President of the Agricultural Retailer’s Association, member and President of the Lincoln Independent Business Association (LIBA), member of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and a dedicated civic advocate.
In true Darlene fashion, at the age 60, she launched a successful real estate career, eventually serving as President of the Nebraska Realtors Association.
An avid adventurer, Darlene loved exploring the world—from white-water rafting the Snake River to traveling across the U.S., Europe, and Asia, often alongside her partner, Rick Goodman.
Above all, her favorite role was being a loving mother and grandmother (Gigi).
Darlene is survived by her partner, Rick Goodman; her brothers, Hank and Rick Hunteman; her daughter, Sharri Fletcher (Barbara True); Tom Fletcher, her son, Russ Fletcher; her grandson, Ty Stoll-Fletcher; her grandson Wes True (Ashley True) and her great-grandchildren, Ryker Stoll-Fletcher, Sam, Zach, and Beau True.
A celebration of Darlene’s remarkable life will be held on Sunday, October 18th at Wilderness Ridge Country Club in Lincoln, NE, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m.
In Lieu of flowers, her family asks that any donations be sent to the Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org/donate or 800.272.3900.