Darlene M. Ripka, 86, passed away peacefully at her home on 3/11/2026, surrounded by the family she loved so dearly.

Born on June 25, 1939, Darlene was the daughter of the late William Ezra Ripka and Nellie E. (Meyer) Ripka. A lifelong resident of the area, she was a woman defined by her dedicated work ethic, her commitment to her community, and an unwavering devotion to her relatives.

Darlene’s professional journey began immediately after high school at Woolworths. Her talent for organization and administration soon led her to a long and successful career at The Pennsylvania State University. She worked her way up through several key roles, serving as the secretary for Music Education, Art Education, and Education and Policy. She eventually retired from the College of Education, where she served in the mailroom and secretarial offices, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and helpfulness.

At the young age of 20, Darlene found a second family within the Order of the Eastern Star and the Order of the Amaranth. A lifelong member of both organizations, she was a pillar of her local chapters. In Amaranth, she achieved the distinguished rank of Royal Matron and held numerous other elective officer roles over the decades. Her dedication to the values of these fraternal orders was a source of great pride throughout her life.

Though Darlene never married, her family was the absolute priority and joy of her life. She was the heart of countless family traditions. From spring through fall, Darlene could be found camping every weekend with her siblings and their families. When not at the campsite, she was out frequenting local malls for deals, scouring yard sales, and enjoying the best of local restaurants. She also cherished the many family excursions to Atlantic City, creating memories that her nieces, nephews, and extended family will carry forever.

Darlene was preceded in death by her brothers, Jack and Robert Ripka, and her sisters, Jean Dreese and Phyllis Hertzog.

Family and friends will be received on April 18th from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Haky-Georgiana Centre County Funeral Home, located on 1034 Benner Pike. A funeral service will begin at 11:00 AM, followed immediately by a graveside service.