Darlene Anna Ferris

Darlene Anna Ferris, 89, passed away peacefully on March 30, 2026, at Good Samaritan Society–St. Luke’s in Kearney, Nebraska.

She was born July 23, 1936, in Lusk, to Henrietta Anna Barbara Spath and Leonard Frank Seeman. Darlene spent most of her life in Lusk, where she built a home centered on family, friendship and care for others.

On October 23, 1955, she married Clifford Dale Ferris. Together they raised three children and created a welcoming home that became a gathering place for family, friends and neighborhood kids alike.

Darlene was known for her kindness, loyalty and strong work ethic. She worked at Safeway in Lusk, where she was especially loved by customers for remembering their families and taking a genuine interest in their lives. She also worked as a waitress and cleaned homes, always bringing warmth and dedication to everything she did.

She found joy in time spent with loved ones, baking, shopping, hosting family gatherings and playing games, such as pinochle and Rummikub. She made a special trip to Japan in 1980 to visit her son, Rich, while he was stationed there in the Air Force after her first grandchild was born.

In the early 2000s, Darlene and Cliff moved to Laramie, Wyoming. After his passing, she moved to Scottsbluff, Nebraska and then spent her final three years in Kearney.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Cliff, brother Myron Seeman and son-in-law Kevin Fernau.

Darlene is survived by her children: Richard Ferris (Theresa) of Kearney, Nebraska; Judy Fernau of Cody; and Donna Rynearson (John) of Lewistown, Illinois.

She is also survived by her grandchildren: Alisa Kenyon (Erik), Jennifer Slade (Jason), Rachelle LeBlanc (Darrin), Matthew Kostel; Jeffrey Fernau, Terra Fernau (Mitchell King);  Marcy Brooks (Blake) and Michael Rynearson.

Her great-grandchildren include Jacob and Julia Trujillo, Adaline and Raymond Kostel, Bentley Fernau, Ace King and Aidric Brooks.

Darlene will be remembered for her generous spirit, sharp wit and the way she made everyone feel like family. Her legacy of love and kindness will live on in all who knew her.

Family and friends are invited to share condolences and celebrate her life on May 23 at 10:30 a.m. at the O’Brien Straatman Redinger Funeral Home, 4115 Ave. N, Kearney.

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