Darlene H. Kapron

Darlene Harriett (Kimball) Kapron was born in Lake Alice, Minnesota on October 1, 1930, to Harry and Laura Kimball and passed away quietly on January 13, 2024, in Longview, Wash. She was 93. On September 20, 1947, she married Johnny Kapron of Grays River and lived on their farm where they raised their five children: Clark, Yvonne, Becky, Marlys and Tina. Mom was an accomplished cook and baker and hosted many memorable Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners through the years in Grays River. Aromas of home-baked bread, cinnamon rolls, cookies, apple pies and her famous beef stew were among sought after treats from family and friends. She taught her girls her canning skills by her example of canning countless jars of fruits, vegetables, jams and jellies. She was a gifted seamstress and sewed for hours on her girls' dresses, etc., for school and special events. In the early 1960's Johnny and Darlene learned to square dance and spent many weekends attending local and out of town dances with friends. A special trip was when they went to Penticton, Canada with kids in tow, for a competition. Together they enjoyed raising draft horses and had several wagons and participated in parades and events, always willing to invite family and community members to join them. In the 70's Darlene started to drive the school bus for the Naselle school district and really enjoyed the kids. She also was an accomplished bowler and belonged to several leagues and won many trophies. Bingo was an all-time favorite along with playing cards with her dad, family and friends. Shortly after Johnny's passing in 1995, Darlene moved to Longview, Washington where she continued with her hobbies, made new friends and kept up with old acquaintances during phone calls and visits. She has left us all holding good, fun and solid memories.

Darlene was preceded in death by her husband Johnny; father Harry, mother Laura, and stepmother Mary; her sister Joyce Magnuson; and brothers Claude and Ronnie Kimball; and daughter Tina Hall. Surviving are son Clark (Cynthia) Kapron of Gig Harbor; daughters Yvonne (Myron) Metcalf of Winlock; Becky (Wayne) Erickson of Rosburg; Marlys (Keith) Metcalf of Naselle, and son-in-law Van Hall of New York City; survivors also include twelve beloved grandchildren, eighteen great grandchildren and two great, great granddaughters and numerous nieces and nephews. The lone surviving immediate Kimball family member is her aunt Leone (Kimball) Magnuson of Grays River. The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to her care team at New Westside Terrace in Longview for their kindness, care and assistance during her years there as a resident. A special thanks to Luz who showed her much love and care.

At her request there will be no service. Any contributions in her memory may be made in her name to the Grays River Fire Department or other local charities.