Obituary of Darrell Elberton Ling

Darrell E. Ling, 89, of Mishawaka, peacefully passed away surrounded by his loved ones on Monday, May 9, 2022. On June 10, 1932, Darrell was born in South Bend, Indiana, to the late Fred and Anna (Szitak) Ling. Born and raised in the Michiana area, Darrell knew better than anybody what kind of natural beauty there was to appreciate in the area. He was a man of the outdoors and enjoyed anything that he could do outside of the house. His favorite place to be was in a boat kicking back and enjoying the sun. As a man who spent time serving in the United States Navy, he always respected and appreciated the natural beauty associated with a body of water. Kayaking, water skiing, or putting around on the boat is something he could do with his family; an extremely important aspect of his life. On September 9, 1961, Darrell married the woman he would spend the rest of his life with, Dorlene Galbreath. Their union brought them two very loving children, Darrick and Danika. He loved being a dad but when the seven grandkids and two great-grandkids came along, his heart was theirs. He was a man that enjoyed quality time spent with the people he loved and did what he could do to be a part of his grandkids’ lives. He took pride in being able to teach the kids how to ride a bicycle. His ability to connect with children was one of his many talents. He was a quick learner and as a result of that, he developed the skills needed to fix, adjust, or simply tinker with any of his many projects at the house. He worked alongside many engineers as a draftsman in a company that manufactured aviation parts. He was able to take his knowledge from work and apply it to simple projects at home. If he had any issues with his Honda Silver Wing, any of the weapons he enjoyed shooting, or his boat, there was a good chance he was able to solve the issues himself. Darrell was a do-it-yourself kind of man and was happy to help anybody that needed a little expertise. He was a great example of what it meant to be a husband, father, and grandfather and will be missed by all those fortunate enough to know him. Preceding Darrell in death are his parents, Fred and Anna (Szitak) Ling; his brother, Maynard Ling; as well as one of his grandchildren. He is survived by his lifelong partner and wife, Dorlene (Galbreath) Ling; his two children, Darrick (Debbie) Ling, and Danika (Kane) Brolin; sister, Lorraine Luzney; as well as his six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. There will be no public services held for Darrell as he wished to be remembered as he was but he will have the honor of being interred with his brothers in arms at the Fort Custer National Cemetery at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made out to Caring Circle Hospice in appreciation for their care and kindness. Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services.