Darlene Ruth-Lois Mack

Darlene Ruth-Lois Mack, 78, of Lansing, NY, passed away peacefully surrounded by her children and grandchildren on October 15, 2024, at Cayuga Medical Center in Ithaca following an unexpected cerebrovascular event. Born on May 23, 1946, in Ithaca, she was the daughter of the late Herbert William and Jessie Marie (Brown) Brecht of whom she dedicated many years of care to as they aged. She was raised in Dryden, NY and spent her youth exploring the hills surrounding her home on Midline Road. She lived in Lansing for over 50 years and called her farmhouse on Davis Road her home.

Darlene was a beloved mother and grandmother who dedicated her life to nurturing three generations of children and grandchildren. She served as a second mother to many and always stood ready to help those in need. Often, she was found nursing stray plants, pets, and people back to health. She was an animal lover who had many close companions cross over the rainbow bridge.

Known for her vibrant spirit and diverse interests, Darlene loved adventures and laughter. She was passionate about gardening and loved nature having a deep appreciation for marigolds and gardenias, which showcase the orange and green colors she loved. She was an avid train enthusiast and would love to watch the train go by her daughter’s house waving to the engineers as they passed by. She enjoyed reading and doing crossword puzzles. Appreciating the works of Agatha Christie, James Patterson, and J.D. Robb. She loved watching comedies, especially John Candy movies, and adored John Wayne. Darlene religiously watched NewsChannel 9 in the morning and evening. She was a woman of faith who studied the bible, watched, listened to, and enjoyed reading religious publications.

Darlene is survived by her children: Robin Jeanette Mack Zifchock, Robert Jay Mack (Laurie) and Randa Joann Mack Corwin (Curt). She leaves behind her grandchildren: Justina, Kyle, Jake (Stacie), Brad (Tommielee), Johnny and Annie; great-grandchildren, Josie and Liam; and her sisters, Patricia Chaffin (Justin) and Irene Shaff. She is also survived by her chosen daughter, Sara Ceurter Moseley; chosen grandson, Gabriel Heck; several nieces and nephews, including her special niece and close friend Shirley; and her beloved cat, Bella, who provided her with much love and companionship.

Darlene was preceded in death by her daughter-in-law, Suzanne Mack; siblings, Herbert Brecht, Ardith Kaulfcorn, William Brecht, Barbara Johnson, John Brecht and Richard Brecht and her chosen son who she continuously remembered, Christian Baur.

Family and friends are invited to attend a funeral service at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at Lansing Funeral Home. A farewell service and interment will follow at Green Hills Cemetery in Dryden, NY, on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at 2:00 p.m.

Contributions in Darlene’s memory may be directed to the ASPCA or The Salvation Army.