Micheal "Mike" Darrington, of Montevideo died Thursday, December 10, 2015 at the VA Medical Center in St. Cloud at the age of 81.
Memorial services will be held on Tuesday, December 15, 2015 at 2:00 PM at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Montevideo with Rev. Donald S. McKee officiating. Visitation will be held from 1 to 2 PM at the church. Interment will be at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.
Micheal Walter Darrington was born on August 11, 1934 in Sisseton, South Dakota to Harold and Esther (Elvin) Darrington. Mike shared many stories about growing up in rural South Dakota with two brothers. He attended a one room school house through the 8th grade, but was a lifelong learner who read books, magazines and enjoyed watching educational programs on TV. His first job was with the Milwaukee Road Railroad. Mike enlisted in the United States Navy in 1952 and served 20 years until retiring in 1972 as a Senior Chief Petty Officer. His naval career enabled him to travel the world, but when he was on leave he would spend time in Montevideo visiting his brothers. It was there that he met his wife, Bette Holien. Mike and Bette were married on February 23, 1957. They had three children: Wayne, Scott and Cindy.
Following his retirement from the U.S. Navy, Mike worked briefly at Friendship Homes in Montevideo before starting his own construction business. After retiring from construction, he continued to work around town as a "handyman." He also worked for Jon and Sue Roisen driving tractor and in the vineyard. Mike really loved his time doing farm work, and spent many hours telling his family not only about the tasks he did, but about the nature he observed while on the farm.
Mike was proud of his family and proud of his service to his country in the U.S. Navy. He enjoyed visiting with friends and neighbors, and loved to indulge in good natured teasing, especially with anyone who would tease him back. Mike's final months of life were spent in the care of the Veteran's Hospital in St. Cloud, Minnesota, where he enjoyed special outings as well as his favorite pastime of watching football on TV.
Micheal is survived by his wife, Bette; his children, Wayne (Terri) Darrington of Gates, NC, Scott (Karen) Darrington of Dawson, MN and Cindy (Doug) Ottinger of Carver, MN; two grandchildren: Mackenzie (Brian) Good and Mitchell Ottinger; as well as nieces, nephews, and other extended family.
Micheal was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Esther; a sister, Lilly Mae; and two brothers: Thomas and Patrick.