A Life Full of Love, Family & Fun

Darlene (Dar) Joyce Merimonti of Sandstone, MN passed away on Thursday, August 7, 2025. She was 87 years old.

Darlene first said "I do" to Michael Schulte on March 2, 1957. Together, they filled their days with love, laughter, and the beautiful chaos of raising five children. Life was full — and never boring — until Michael's passing on August 15, 1972.

Life, in its wonderful way, brought love to her door again in the form of Peter Merimonti. On July 17, 1976, they joyfully tied the knot. Pete had three children from a previous marriage, already grown and finding their own paths, but they quickly became part of her extended circle of love. Together, Darlene and Pete shared decades of adventures, joy, and devotion until his passing on September 9, 2007.

Darlene is preceded in death by her first husband Michael Schulte and her second husband, Pete Merimonti; her parents, Susan and William Francis; brothers, Ronald and Jack; and son-in-law, Daryl Beck.

Darlene is survived by her children, Dan Schulte (Jeanne Schad), Sheryl Beck, Donna (Donnie) Siebenaler, Frank Schulte, Barb (Patrick) Haynes, ten grandchildren, and 21 great grandchildren.

To remember Darlene is to remember she had two great loves, eight amazing kids between herself and her husbands, and enough stories, laughter, and love to fill a hundred lifetimes. That was her life — and it's the beautiful legacy she leaves behind for all of us.

A funeral service will be held to honor Darlene at 11am on Thursday, August 14, 2025 at St. Mary of the Lake Church, in White Bear Lake, MN, with Father Eilen officiating Visitation will be held from 10am until the beginning of the service at the church. Burial will take place at St. Mary's on the Lake Cemetery following the service.

Arrangements by Methven Funeral and Cremation Services of Sandstone, MN.