Darlene V Wunder

Darlene V. Wunder, of Cereal Springs, Illinois, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026, at the age of 66. She was born on July 2, 1959.

Darlene is survived by her beloved husband of 35 years, Ken Mangiapane; her sister, Diane (Mike) Fuentes; her nieces, Renee (Tom) Powell, Lisa (Scott) Pietruszewski, and Summer Schuster; and her cherished great-nieces and great-nephews, Kameron, Brandon, Magnolia, Lily, Tommy, Gage, and Tanner. She is also survived by cousins who were deeply important to her and friends she considered family, all of whom held a special place in her heart.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Elaine Wunder; her sister, Dale Schuster; and her niece, Michelle Violet.

Darlene loved deeply and lived colorfully. She found joy in reading, animals, spending time on the lake watching her animals swim, laying in the sun, traveling to Mexico, shopping, and savoring ice cream that was perfectly melted—always with a cup of coffee close by. Above all, she loved Jesus.

She never met an animal she didn’t want to rescue or a soul she didn’t want saved. Darlene was the first to offer help when it was needed, the first to celebrate life’s joys, and the first to sit beside you when the worst moments came. She was the best wife, sister, and aunt anyone could ask for—welcoming everyone with her beautiful smile and making each person feel like they were her favorite.

She had the best nail polish, an endless supply of beautiful lipsticks, and never met a room she didn’t want to decorate, thanks to her love of color. Her laugh, her listening ear, and her genuine desire to help others will be forever missed.

In honoring Darlene’s memory, the family encourages acts of kindness, compassion, and generosity—especially toward animals and those in need—as these were closest to her heart.

Darlene’s kindness, faith, and love leave a lasting imprint on all who knew her.

Sloan Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.