Eugene S. Darke

Eugene “Gene” S. Darke, age 96, of North Webster, peacefully passed away on November 12, 2025, in Warsaw, Indiana, surrounded by the warmth of his loving family. He was born on September 8, 1929, in Detroit, Michigan to Stanley and Ruth (Birkhill) Darke. 

Gene married Carolyn "Kay" Beall on July 1, 1967 in Detroit, MI. They celebrated 50 years together until her passing on November 7, 2017.Gene is survived by his cherished children, Nancy Benedetti of San Diego, CA; Susan (Jamie Pagel) Pizzuto of Troutdale, OR; Earl (Cheryl) Nuckolls of Grand Haven, MI; Debbie (Chris) Powers of Lacey, WA; and Stacey (Kevin) Bell of Syracuse. He was a loving grandfather to John Turnbull, Jr., Colleen (Ryan) Pless, Jenna (Joe) Norwood, Tim Rodgers, Aime Nuckolls, Laurie Nuckolls, Kollin Bell, Megan (Steve) Burns, Ashley (Adam) Armstrong, and Kourtney (Josh) VanCleave. Gene was also a proud great-grandfather to Tyler Turnbull, Tucker Turnbull, Nora Pless, Alex Pless, Callaway Norwood, Cora Norwood, Molly Burns, Addison Armstrong, Avery Armstrong, Annabelle Armstrong, Olivia VanCleave, Maxwell VanCleave, Cooper VanCleave, and Archer VanCleave. He is also remembered by his brother, Gary Darke, with whom he shared fond family memories. Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Stanley and Ruth (Birkhill) Darke, beloved daughter Sharon Dalian, and his dear sisters, Constance Brown and Marilyn Ruth. He was also preceded in death by his affectionate pugs, Sissy and Bubba, whose companionship brought him much joy.

Gene was an avid woodworker. He enjoyed home improvement projects and was happiest spending time in his wood shop surrounded by his lifetime collection of hand and power tools. He was always thrilled to show off his latest projects. Gene was a dedicated reader with a passion for learning and passing on knowledge. He was also a crossword puzzle and Scrabble enthusiast, and loved flaunting his extensive vocabulary. Gene enjoyed many hours playing Pinochle with friends and family and made a great partner. After retiring from the real estate and mortgage businesses, Gene and Kay spent several years traveling the U.S. in their motorhome visiting their far-flung family and sightseeing along the way. Their favorite trip was to Alaska where they were immersed in the beauty and culture of our 49th state. Gene had a unique ability to light up any gathering, and he was often celebrated as the life of the party. His laughter and stories will be sorely missed, but his spirit will always be a part of those joyous moments. Eugene S. Darke will be remembered not only for his craftsmanship and wit but also for the love he poured into his family and friends. His legacy will continue to thrive in the stories shared and the lives he touched.

Titus Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 8056 E 500 N, North Webster, IN 46555, has been entrusted with Eugene’s care. The family is grieving privately. To send a written condolence, visit Eugene's obituary page at: www.TitusFuneralHome.com.