Darlene Janssen

Darlene Janssen, 87, passed away peacefully on March 18, 2026, with her devoted husband, Kat, and her beloved daughter, Kim, by her side.

Darlene was born on November 5, 1938, in Solomon, Kansas, to Clarence “Barney” and Ruth Shirack. She spent the first 74 years of her life in the community she loved, graduating from Solomon High School in 1956. That same year, she married Eldon “Kat” Janssen, and together they built a life centered on family, raising three children—Kim, Rick, and Monte.

After her children began school, Darlene pursued her passion for education by enrolling at Marymount College in Salina, Kansas, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in education. She began her teaching career in the Abilene school district, where she was a respected and admired educator. Darlene taught sixth grade before transitioning into home economics, where she shared her skills in sewing, cooking, and home management. Always eager to learn, she went on to earn her master’s degree from Kansas State University, commuting regularly to Manhattan while balancing her teaching career and family life.

Darlene made a lasting impact on her students and remained fondly remembered by many well into her retirement. She had a deep love for the arts and dedicated time as a volunteer director for school plays.

Her passion for service extended beyond the classroom. Darlene played an instrumental role in the early development of the Solomon Street Festival. In retirement, she served on the Solomon School Board and was honored to serve as a Federal Grand Jurist in Topeka. She also volunteered many hours as part of the team that revived the Solomon Valley Tribune.

Darlene was a devoted supporter of her children and grandchildren, rarely missing a game or event and cheering proudly from the bleachers. She and Kat helped establish the Solomon Booster Club.

In 2013, following a tornado and a desire to be closer to family, they moved to Lawrence, Kansas, where they created new memories while continuing to cherish their lifelong ties to Solomon. In 2022, Darlene and Kat were honored as members of the inaugural class of the Solomon High School Hall of Fame in recognition of their many contributions to the school and community.

Darlene is survived by her loving husband, Kat; her daughter Kim (Rick) Riffel of Lawrence; her son Rick Janssen of Salina; and her son Monte (Lisa) Janssen of Austin, Texas. She was a proud grandmother to Matt Riffel; Isaac (Ashleah) Riffel; Alexa (Brandon) Beebe; Kellye Janssen; Jordan Janssen; Joel Janssen; Peyton (Kyle) Click; Evan (Alexandra) Janssen; and Regan Janssen. She was also blessed with nine great-grandchildren.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Neuvant House and to the Douglas County VNA hospice team whose compassion and care brought comfort and dignity during Darlene’s final days.

Visitation will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, Kansas. Funeral and graveside services will follow immediately.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be made to Douglas County VNA Hospice or the Solomon Senior Center in Darlene’s memory.