Darene C. Dorton, age 75, passed away on Friday, February 13, 2026

Darene is survived by her husband of 46 years, Darryl Dorton; her children: Marissa Dorton and Ariel (Gregory) Flores; granddaughter, Autumn Flores; her sister, Leigh Dettmering; niece, Jan; nephews: Daniel and Charles; aunt, Georgia Allen; her feline companions: Pheonix, TC, Muffin and Allie. Darene was preceded in passing by her parents: Orville and Mary Dettmering; and her sisters: Donna and Dawn.

A Memorial Service will take place on Saturday, March 7, 2026, directly at Hammond Hyde Park United Methodist Church at 11:00 AM officiated by Pastor Pete Ward. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 10:00 AM until time of Service.

Darene was a retired Nurse at both St. Catherine and St. Margaret Hospitals and a member of Hammond Hyde Park United Methodist Church. Her love for reading was unmatched; she could often be found with a book in hand, immersing herself in stories that sparked her imagination. A devoted baker, she especially cherished the tradition of baking Christmas cookies, a joyful activity that brought family and friends together during the holiday season. In addition to her love for literature and baking, Darene had a deep appreciation for nature, particularly monarch butterflies. Camping was another of her cherished activities, where she reveled in the great outdoors and the tranquility it offered. Darene also enjoyed unwinding by watching television, offering herself a chance to escape into the world of stories played out on the screen. Her ability to play with her phone reflected her eagerness to stay connected with her loved ones and embrace the technology of her time. Additionally, her talent in sewing showcased her creative flair, creating both functional and beautiful pieces that were a testament to her skill.

Darene was a true connoisseur of McDonalds French Fries, extra salt.