Darlene Kay (Fitzgerald) Eckerson

CROGHAN-  Darlene Kay Eckerson, 72, passed away Friday evening, September 8, 2023 at Lewis County General Hospital.

Darlene is survived by three children, Kristine (Anthony) Kriwox of Martinsburg, Tracy (Clint) Kinney of Utica, and Justin Pate of Utica; two step-children, Chad (Tracie) Pate of Castorland, Ellie (David) Becker of Chaumont; two brothers, David (Debbie) Fitzgerald of Lyons Falls, Nathan (Jane) Fitzgerald of Keene, NY; one sister, Katie (Jeremy) Hill of Glenfield; eight grandchildren and several great grandchildren; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

She is predeceased by her beloved life partner, Niles “Chip” Lehman, and her canine companion 2X4; her father, Kenneth Fitzgerald, who passed in 2004; her mother, Betty (Galarneau) Fitzgerald, who passed away in 2014; two sisters, Margaret, who passed in 1966 and Becky Murphy, who passed in 2020; and a dear friend, Robin Starr.

Darlene was born on August 19, 1951 in Constableville, a daughter of the late Kenneth and Betty Galarneau Fitzgerald. During her life Darlene worked for Boise Cascade in Beaver Falls, she owned and operated Indian River Hotel and Belfort Inn; she also worked at Stumps Tavern, Grunert’s Hotel and Naumburg Hotel as a Bar Entertainer.  She touched many lives in recovery, especially those of her dear friends, Tommy and Mary. The family wishes to thank Lewis County General Hospital for the kindness and care she received while there.

Darlene loved her animals, fishing, being with her friends, and the great outdoors.   She always created a loving space for all people, and was best known for her care-free spirit.  Don’t be sad, the legendary “Dar” lives on.

The funeral will be held on Friday, September 15, 2023 at Noon at Iseneker Funeral Home, Inc., with Rev. Bruce W. Chapman, officiating.  A gathering at Lewis County Marine Corps League Det. # 754, Lowville, will immediately follow the funeral service.  Any food donations may be taken directly to the Marine Corps League on Friday.  Calling hours are from 4-7 p.m. on Thursday, September 14, 2023 at Iseneker Funeral Home, Inc., Lowville.  Burial will be held at the convenience of the family at a later date.  Contributions  may be made to Lewis County Opportunities, Inc., Domestic Violence/Rape Crisis Program, 

8265 State Route 812, Lowville, NY 13367 , or Recovery/Addiction Services, of ones choice; or Lewis County Humane Society, P.O. Box 682, Lowville, NY 13367.

Condolences may be shared with Darlene’s family at www.isenekerfuneralhome.com

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.