Edith Darlene Banasik, 86, passed away peacefully on the 10th of February 2024, in Prescott Valley, Arizona. Darlene was born October 13th, 1937, in Fairfax, Missouri. She was a proud resident of Chariton for over 55 years. She was an elementary teacher in Russell for 25 years where she touched many children's lives during her career. She was affectionately known to her students as Mrs. B. To commemorate her life, a Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, March 22, 2024, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton, Iowa. Interment will follow at the Chariton Cemetery.
She was a beacon of light and joy in the lives of her three children: Robyn Ortega (David) of Prescott Valley, AZ, Stephen Banasik (Laura) of Springfield, MO, and Timiothy Banasik of Russell, IA; grandchildren: Jim (Lindsey) Banasik of Mankota, MN, Brandon Banasik (Sidney Caroline) of Lexington, MO, Kristine (Nathan) Frailing of Brooklyn, NY, Allison Banasik of Centerville, IA, and Makyla Ortega (Tyler Nielsen) of Des Moines, IA; and great grandchildren: Bradyn, Summer, Stella, and River Banasik and Sparrow Frailing. Her heartwarming smile and compassionate spirit were the pillars of comfort and friendship to all who were fortunate enough to love and know her.
Her leisure time was often spent amidst her family and friends and having coffee at the beauty shop.
Darlene was preceded in death by her parents, Bert & Flossie Curry; husband, Edward Banasik; sisters: Juanita (died in childhood), Helen Slater, Delores Nace, Nadine Dappen, Betty Yungschlager, and Frances Kerr; and brothers, Paul (died in childhood) and Russell Curry.
Her departure leaves a void in the family that will be felt profoundly as they hold dear the precious moments they were blessed to share with her. The essence of Darlene's spirit, characterized by a sense of humor and tenderness, will eternally resonate with those she touched.
