Darlene's Obituary
Darlene Rhae (Swanson) Braaten, loving mother, grandmother, and sister, passed away Sunday, December 17, 2023, after a long battle with cancer at Peace Hospice in Great Falls, MT.
Darlene was born May 8, 1944, to Harry and Eyvon Swanson of Valier, MT. Along with her sister, Cindy, and her brother, Daryle, Darlene enjoyed growing up on the family farm and would often ride her horse to meet up with her best friend, Lyn.
After attending and graduating from school in Valier, Darlene went on to attend Montana State University and received her teaching degree. She then moved to Great Falls to teach. Upon her move to Great Falls, Darlene met the love of her life, Gordon Braaten. They married, and she became a stay-at-home mom to Gloriann, Duane and Dustin. Together they made many wonderful memories, including building a cabin on the Dearborn River. She tirelessly supported the numerous activities of her kids and logged countless hours at band performances, Little League games, and motorcross races.
As if being a mom of three children did not keep her busy enough, Darlene also worked as a substitute teacher as her children grew older. From teaching, to substitute teaching, to eventually being a math tutor, Darlene taught in the Great Falls Public Schools for over 30 years at various schools, including Franklin Elementary, Sunnyside Elementary, and West Elementary. She made many amazing lifelong friends throughout her teaching career. She was also extremely active in the Sons of Norway and helped run the Viking Booth at the fair for many years. Everyone who knew Darlene saw the strength, grace, and kindness that was so much a part of who she was.
Darlene’s favorite role, however, was being Grammie to her 5 grandchildren. Every chance she had to support Tatum, Samantha, Oliver, Lauren, and Will, whether it was at a sporting event, concert, or fundraiser, Grammie was the first person in line and the truest supporter. She loved her grandkids and fought hard to remain with them as long as possible.
Darlene is survived by her children, Gloriann (Keld) Edvardsen, Duane (Sarah) Braaten, and Dustin (Jayci) Braaten; grandchildren, Tatum, Samantha, Oliver, Lauren and Will; sister, Cindy (Dick) Schock; brother, Daryle (Pam) Swanson; sister-in-law, Evie Forbes; brother-in-law, Leroy Braaten; and numerous nieces; and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gordon Braaten, parents, Harry and Eyvon Swanson; brothers-in-law, Donnie Braaten and Bob Forbes; and sister-in-law, Marlene Braaten.
Funeral services will be held at First United Methodist Church on December 23, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. with arrangements by Schnider Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Sons of Norway or Sletten Cancer Institute.
