Darlene M. McCray

Darlene Mae McCray, age 92, of Hibbing, MN, passed away on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at Guardian Angels Health & Rehabilitation Center in Hibbing, MN. She was born on November 9, 1933, in Columbus, Nebraska, to Eldon and Mabel (Welch) Kaspar.

Darlene worked on the family farm, a role that shaped her strong work ethic and appreciation for the little things. She was an avid fan of the Minnesota Vikings and the Nebraska Cornhuskers. In her free time, Darlene was often found in her garden tending to the vegetables and flowers and in the kitchen, where she was known for her cooking skills, but was even better at baking. Her desserts were a highlight at every gathering and will be fondly remembered by all who had the pleasure of enjoying them.

She will be remembered for her positive outlook on life. She often shared a simple but powerful belief: “Happiness is a choice, and I choose to be happy.”

Darlene is survived by her children, David (Shannon) McCray of Hibbing, MN, and Mark McCray of Grand Junction, CO; grandchildren, Ryan (Rissy) McCray and Tanner (Tina) McCray; great-grandchildren, Jack McCray, Charlie McCray, and Grayson McCray; and special friends, Candy and Gary Oie.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Donald McCray; her parents, Eldon and Mabel Kaspar; and her brother, Robert Kaspar.

A Celebration of Life will take place at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at the Dougherty Funeral Home in Hibbing, MN. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the celebration, and Ed Vessel will officiate the celebration.

Arrangements are with the Dougherty Funeral Home of Hibbing, MN.