Darlene Marie Williams

Darlene Marie Williams, a lifelong Idaho resident, passed away peacefully on October 12 2026.

Born February 24, 1935, in Kellogg, Idaho, to Charles and Martha (Nettleton) Calkins, Darlene was raised in Coeur d’Alene and attended local schools. She was married to Wilford “Willie” Williams of Verbena, Alabama, until his passing in 2001. Later in life, she found a wonderful companionship with Paul Brink, with whom she enjoyed 14 years before his passing.

Darlene spent over 25 years as a retail clerk in the bakery at Albertsons. Affectionately known as "The Cookie Lady," she delighted in handing out free cookies to children shopping with their mothers—a kindness so impactful that those same children, grown up, would often recognize and greet her decades later. Her baking talents extended far beyond work; she possessed a special gift for crafting beautiful custom birthday and wedding cakes for loved ones.

An adventurous spirit, Darlene was an avid bowler, a skilled pool player, a motorcycle rider, and a lover of the outdoors—especially any place by a lake. Her later years were filled with travel, Bingo, card games at local senior centers, and she cherished time with her family. One of the greatest highlights of her life was winning a brand-new van at the Coeur d'Alene Tribal Casino Bingo with her lucky number, G54. She aptly and lovingly named the van "GiGi."

Darlene spent her final years enjoying the community at Garden Plaza in Post Falls. She is survived by her daughter, Pam Wolle and her partner Brian Haberman of Ridgefield, Washington; her son, Donald Williams and his wife Tracy of Otis Orchards, Washington; 4 grandchildren, Scott Shepperd (Cindy), Jenica Baxter (Dan), Kristi Waltz (Gary), and Cory Williams (Lindsey); 8 Great-grandchildren, Bonus grandson Robert Wolle (Kris), 7 Bonus Great-grandchildren, and 10 Bonus Great-Great grandchildren. Several nieces, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her husband, Wilford; her companion, Paul; her half-sister, Thelma Nettleton; her sister and brother-in-law, Deanna and Clay Larkin; and her son-in-law, Dale Wolle.

Darlene was deeply loved by everyone who knew her, and the common refrain among her many friends was always, "Oh, I love Darlene!" Her family considers that to be the ultimate tribute and a fitting legacy.

At her request, there will be no service. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Hospice House of North Idaho.

We her family deeply appreciate all the kind support and attention from her care team at Garden Plaza, and Hospice House of North Idaho. You are the Angels among us.