Darlene D. Kool, 89, passed away Dec. 12, 2025. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, Dec. 22, 2025, at First Baptist Church in Pella. Visitation will be held 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to the funeral at the church. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery in Pella.
Memorials can be given in her memory to First Baptist Church in Pella.
Darlene Diane (Van Der Pol) Kool was born Mar. 22, 1936, to Sarah (Willemsen) and Alexander Van Der Pol at home on their family farm south of Sully. She was the first-born of five children.
Darlene met Allen John Kool at the roller-skating rink in Pella. Allen and Darlene were united in marriage Sept. 15, 1954, at Sully First Reformed Church. With Jesus Christ at the center of their family, together they raised three sons: Randy Allen, Ronald Lee, and Russell Dean on the family farm outside Leighton. Darlene and Allen farmed the family Century Farm for over 53 years, retiring in 2007.
Following their retirement, Darlene and Allen moved into Pella and enjoyed traveling and gospel music together. A favorite place of theirs was Branson, MO, where they enjoyed many vacations over the years with family and friends.
She was active at First Baptist Church by teaching Sunday school for 19 years, attending Bible studies, helping with Jesus Kids, playing the piano, and occasionally playing the accordion.
Darlene was the prayer warrior for her family. It was important to her that her family put their faith and trust in Jesus and they be guided by Him daily. She wanted to be sure each had their salvation and that she’d see them in Heaven. She’d frequently say, “I pray every night for each one by name starting with Randy’s family and then going down the line, so I don’t miss anyone.”
Darlene’s real joy was in her three sons and daughters-in-law along with their families: Randy (Cindy) Kool of Adel, Ronald (Sherryl) Kool of Bettendorf, Russell (Cheryl) Kool of Plano, TX; 15 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.
She is survived by her sisters and brothers-in-law: Janice and Gene Kaisand, Betty Van Der Pol, Mary and Rich Terpstra, Phyllis Van Der Pol, and Junior Kool.
She was preceded in death by her husband Allen Kool; her parents; her brothers Howard Van Der Pol and David Van Der Pol; and her sister-in-law Beverly Kool.
Darlene had a soft heart for all. She will be sorely missed, but her love for the Lord and generosity to others will live on through her family and friends as they remember her.
