Darlene H. Heilig 75, of Bad Axe, passed away on May 22, 2023 at Courtney Manor after an illness, with family by her side. She was a caring daughter, loving wife, cherished step-mother, and dear friend.

Born on November 4, 1947, Darlene was the only child of the late Joe and Martha (Byarski) Lerash. She shared many good memories of growing up in Hamtramck, MI and later moving to Bad Axe, MI. Darlene shared a close bond with her cousin, Diane Bodner, who was more like a sister to her than a cousin.

On May 16, 1997, Darlene embarked on a new adventure as she exchanged vows with the love of her life, Harold L. Heilig. Together, they created countless memories that will forever be treasured.

Darlene's sense of humor was unmatched. She had an uncanny ability to find joy and humor in every situation, and her infectious laughter was a testament to her free-spirited nature. Her quick wit and playful banter lifted the spirits of those around her, brightening even the gloomiest of days.

While Darlene's life was marked by her humor and wit, she also dedicated herself to her work. She was employed at Seatbelt and later retired from Courtney Manor.

Darlene survived by her six step-children: Cathy Jimpkoski (James Korleski) of Kinde; Jeff (Brenda) Heilig of Port Austin; Harold (Brenda) Heilig of Irons; Dawn (Dave) Ventline of Port Austin; Steven Heilig of Bad Axe; and Nicholas Heilig (Rebecca Russell) of Ubly; her sixteen step-grandchildren: Deana Jimpkoski, Amanda Jimpkoski, Nicole Licavoli, Kristle Reinke, Harold Heilig, Tricia Josoff, Holly Heilig, Bradley Ventline, Kayla Campbell, Dustin Heilig, Cassandra Heilig, William Heilig, Bethany Heilig, Caydian Heilig, Emerald Brinkman, and Landon Heilig; her brother-in- laws: Wilford Heilig and Gerald Heilig; and her sister-in- law: Lucille Hintz and several beloved great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Darlene was proceeded in death by her husband, Harold L. Heilig; her parents: Joe and Martha Lerash; her dearest cousin, Diane Bodner; step-granddaughter, Darcy Jimpkoski; her son-in-law, Dennis Jimpkoski; brother-in-laws: Paul, Clarence, Marcus, Ralph, Benjamin, Bernard, William, Nicholas Heilig; and her sister-in- laws:  Nona Harris, Gertrude Cerveny, Catherine Stewart, Geneiveve Mithoff, Margaret Peyok, Beatrice Drake, Winifred Sageman, Jeanette Heilig, and Regina Koglin.

In honoring Darlene's wishes, no formal memorial service will be held. Instead, let us remember her in our own special way, each of us reflecting on the moments we shared, the laughter we shared, and the joy she brought into our lives.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Darlene's name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, as this was a charity close to her heart.