E. Darlene Mackintosh

E. Darlene Mackintosh passed away on August 2, 2023 in Omaha, NE. She was born on January 17, 1926 in Barnard, KS to William F. and Leitha Eddy Knauer. When she was 12 the family moved to Manhattan, KS where she graduated from High School and later from Kansas State College (now KSU) with a degree in Biological Science. She married David Otis Mackintosh on September 16, 1945 while they were both attending college. After they graduated they moved to Gallatin, MO where David established a Veterinary Practice with Darlene as his assistant and partner. She was always involved in community and school activities and for a time served as a substitute teacher. She counted her life in 20 year blocks - the first 20 in Kansas, the second 20 raising her family with five children, pets and friends trooping through the house. She felt this experience, even more than college, prepared her well for her next 20 years as a social worker for the Division of Family Services. She spent her first 20 years of retirement in Gallatin before moving to Omaha where she spent a bonus 14 years living and making friends at Sunridge Village, an Independent Living community near the homes of Bill and Jodie, Mike and Regan, Ashley and Clark. Seeing her great grandchildren grow brought her enormous joy and entertainment. She enjoyed the support of her Omaha families and friends. She spent her last 18 months at Brookestone Village where she received the best of care and many visitors. She was a 50 year member of P.E.O., an inactive elder of the Presbyterian Church, an avid bridge player and a huge fan of sports, including the K. C. Chiefs, Royals, Creighton and especially the KSU Wildcats.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, David; a stillborn baby, Barbara, sons Michael and Bill, and daughter, Barbara Sue, as well as her parents, sister Virginia Kobett and brother Del Knauer. She is survived by her children, Robert Bruce (Marlene), Kathryn Ann, her favorite daughter-in-law, Jodie Mackintosh, grandchildren, Michael (Regan) Mackintosh, Ashley (Clark) Horgan and E. Becky Mackintosh; 5 great grandchildren, Sloan, Cole, Molly, Will and Colin, and sister, Mary Lu Hass. 

In lieu of flowers, Darlene would appreciate donations made through Stith Funeral Home, 1329 West Grand Street, Gallatin, MO 64640 to the Active Aging Center Meals on Wheels program, City of Gallatin for 2024 swimming pool passes to be distributed through the Bright Futures Gallatin program for children in need, or the PEO Continuing Education Fund. 

Darlene and her family want to especially thank everyone at Sunridge Village Retirement Community, 13410 Blondo Street, Omaha NE where she enjoyed many activities and friends, a great chef, and (when she was still driving) the most wonderful underground parking! And grateful thanks to everyone at Brookestone Village, 4330 South 144th Street, Omaha NE where they provided wonderful care, love and support for Darlene and her family.

There will be a graveside service open to the public at Hillcrest Cemetery (corner of Oval Avenue and MM Highway) on Thursday, August 10, 2023 at 11:00 am. Arrangements entrusted to the care and direction of Stith Funeral Home in Gallatin. (660) 663-2117. Online guestbook at www.stithfamilyfunerals.com

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