Darla Jean Klukas Darla Jean Klukas was born January 19,

Darla Jean Klukas Darla Jean Klukas was born January 19, 1937 in Mansfield, OH. She lived there until age five then moved with parents, Ralph and Jennie Winkler to a farm near Lexington, OH. She lived there until age ten. While there, a sister named Martha Louise became part of the family. Darla with her family moved to E. Mansfield where she attended elementary and graduated from Madison High School. At age 16, she worked part time at Kroger's until graduation. During theses years, she met the "love of her life" David Klukas. Two months after graduation on July 3, 1955, she and Dave became husband and wife. Sixteen months later they welcomed to their home, Mark Allen and 26 months later along came Cheryl Annette. When Cheri was only two weeks old, her dad started a job at Don Barr Copy Machines. A short time later, the family relocated to Lima, OH where they remained for 40 years. At the age of 32, Darla began college studying for a Bachelor of Science degree. She completed in four years and taught for the next 24 years at Shawnee Elmwood Elementary. She was president of the local Int. Reading Association for three years. Her emphasis in teaching was teaching children to read through children's literature. During Mark's young years, she was a den mother for the local Cub Scout group. She became interested in growing and using herbs and during her time in Lima was an active member of two garden clubs. Other interests included crafts, golfing and reading. Upon her and Dave's retirement, they moved to Los Lunas, NM to be close to their children and grandchildren where they enjoyed and traveling to the activities of their grand boys, David and Jerry Trujillo. During those years, they also enjoyed a grand step daughter, Erica and her two sons, Nathan and Joshua. They became members of the Methodist Church in Belen helping in various ways. She enjoyed subbing in Los Lunas schools for eight years. Upon the passing of Dave at 81, Darla continued church work and activities in Extension and El Jardin Encanto Garden Club. She appreciated the kindness, help and love of the many people she met during the final years of her life. If only all people could have the wonderful life she was gifted to, what a great world this would be. Darla passed away January 21, 2025. Services will be held at First United Methodist Church, 75 Manzano Expy, Rio Communities on February 15, 2025 at 11 am. Reception to follow at the church.