Ronald Melvin Darlage peacefully passed away on September 23, 2021, at the age of 78, surrounded by his family. He was born the eldest son of Melvin and Leona (Oberman) Darlage who preceded him in death. Ron graduated from Seymour High School. On September 2, 1961, he married his high school sweetheart and the true love of his life, Brenda Jo (Tuggle) Darlage. They were recently honored with a 60th Wedding Anniversary party hosted by their children.

Ron was a tool and die maker by trade. Ron and Brenda were blessed with an entrepreneurial spirit that guided them throughout their life together. Ron and Brenda founded Crane Hill Machine & Fabrication, Inc. in 1987. Ron purchased the property at the top of Crane hill because his grandfather had once owned and operated it as a gas station and country store. Ron and Brenda also owned and operated Hilltop Homes. After retirement, Ron was able to enjoy the one thing that he truly loved….. building cars. Ron didn’t build just any car, he was a Ford man. The cars that he built ranged in date from the 1920’s to the 1950’s. Ron loved to drive around finding potential parts that he could use to build a car. His cars were his passion and he proudly would display them at many car shows in Seymour. He received numerous trophies and awards for his works. Ron truly enjoyed going to breakfast with his friends known as the “Breakfast Club”. They would all drive their old cars and swap stories about the ole good days.

Ron loved his family and truly embraced life. He was baptized and confirmed at Immanuel Lutheran Church and continued to a be a faithful member throughout his life, where he served as elder and on various boards. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren participate in all their sports events.

Ron is survived by his wife of 60 years, Brenda. His children Thomas (Ginger) Darlage, Karen (Greg) Wheatley, Cindy (Brent) Marksberry. His grandchildren: Jennifer (Shawn) Wilson, Kellie Walters, Tommy Darlage, Joshua (Ashley) Acton, Joshua Wheatley, Sam Marksberry, Jack Marksberry, and eight great-grand children. Ron is also survived by his brothers and sisters, Dennis Darlage, Duane (Charlene) Darlage, Joyce Lariviere, Donald Darlage, and Carol (Klay) Caudell.

Ronald was preceded in death by his parents, and brother Gary Darlage.

Visitation will be held at Voss Chapel on Tuesday September 28, 2021, from 4-8pm and on Wednesday September 29, 2021 from 10 until the time of service. Services will be held at Immanuel Lutheran Church at 11am with Pastors Ralph Blomenberg, James Rodriquez, Philip Bloch and Vicar Nick Wagenknecht officiating.

Memorials may be made to Trinity Lutheran High School, Immanuel Lutheran Church, or Donor’s Choice.

Burial will follow at Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery.

All arrangements have been entrusted to Voss & Sons Funeral Service in Seymour.

Please visit the funeral home website at www.vossfuneralservice.com to leave condolences to the family.

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