Darlene Knarr

Darlene E. Knarr, age 85 of Cottage Grove, formerly of Ham Lake, passed away April 16, 2021.

Darlene Elizabeth Knarr was born September 26, 1935 in Chicago, Illinois to William and Margaret (Wivinis) Payne.  She grew up in downtown Chicago and graduated from high school.  She was married to Larry Gardiner in 1957.  They lived in Iowa for a short time while Larry attended school and returned to Chicago where she enjoyed raising her daughters and also worked at the phone company.

They moved to Texas in 1963 where she worked at Burger King, Texas Instruments and also began her career in providing daycare in her home.  She enjoyed crafts, swimming, baking, cooking and was known for her famous Italian potato salad.  Darlene enjoyed entertaining friends and family and looked forward to celebrating the Christmas holidays with her family.  They moved to Cottage Grove in 1976 and she continued to provide daycare to families.

She was married to Edward Knarr and they lived in Ham Lake for 20 years.  She was an active church member in Cottage Grove and Ham Lake and a member of the Red Hat Society.  Darlene was a fun-loving person who loved to laugh who loved surrounding herself with her family.

She is survived by her daughters Terri (Richard) Flipp and Tamara (Andrew) Jones and three grandchildren and one great-grandchild.  She is preceded in death by her parents; husband Edward and infant grandson Trevor Flipp.

Funeral service will 1:30 pm, Sunday, April 18, 2021 at Kok Funeral Home, 7676 80th Street, Cottage Grove with visitation one hour prior.  Interment Cottage Grove Cemetery.

Because of the personal care that Darlene received from Allina Hospice, you are welcome to make a contribution in her memory to the Allina Hospice Foundatio n to assist their organization as they continue in their mission.  Thank you!