Darlene J. (Luckina) Lowenkopf

CLINTON- Mrs. Darlene J. (Luckina) Lowenkopf passed away unexpectedly on Monday, January 30, 2023, at the age of 68. At the time of her passing her heart was full of love for those dearest to her, her family. Darlene was born in Utica on June 25, 1954, to the late Claude and Grace (Palmer) Luckina. She was raised and educated locally, attending Kemble Elementary and Utica Free Academy. On December 3, 1983, she married Charles “Chuck” Fuller. Darlene and Chuck were well-suited for each other—their family rapport was paramount and the well-being of their children was their focus. Chuck passed away on May 18, 2002. Howard “Howie” Lowenkopf came into her life later, lifting her spirit and helping her to find happiness once again. The couple married on November 21, 2015, and had a lot of fun together. They enjoyed motorcycling, camping trips to Bass Lake for getaways and relaxation, and making new friends who then became old friends. Throughout her working years, Darlene was employed at Utica Disposable as a machine operator, making disposable hospital gowns, as well as Biogenic Dental where she worked on the manufacturing of prosthetic dental products. Darlene is remembered as a generous woman who was always concerned with the needs of others, never asking for anything in return. She was hospitable, and when her children were growing up her house was always the gathering spot. Darlene was affectionately called “mama dar” by her children’s friends, and was always up into everyone’s business! She was a compassionate listener, and if anyone needed a place to stay her home and heart were always open. She was honest with her words and always told it like it was! As a mom, her parenting skills were just right for her family. When her grandchildren came into her life, it was almost as if she forgot she had ever had children—she spoiled and doted on them, which gave her the greatest joy. Darlene fueled her days with conversation on the telephone, checking in on everyone she cared about. She enjoyed watching scary movies and was able to share this pastime with her son Tony. She over-shopped and would fall for any anti-wrinkle cream known to man! Facebook was another form of entertainment, finding all the “good scoop” out there. She was an excellent Pinocle and Pokeno “for pennies” card player – a habit she enjoyed with her sisters. Years ago, holidays were celebrated with a flare, but in recent years they became more intimate and informal. Fried chicken made by Nikki was a favorite, and Darlene loved ham and baked spaghetti made by her sister Karen. Anyone who looks to their pet for support and affection, could understand the relationship that Darlene had with her Lhasa Apso, Harley. He went everywhere with them and was the King of her castle! Darlene knew the Lord and did his work. She appreciated prayers and always prayed for others in need. Darlene is survived by her loving husband Howie, her children and their loves, Anthony C. “Tony” and Janice Fuller, Nicole “Nikki” Fuller, Charles Jr. “Chuck” and Rebecca Fuller, Ernie Lowenkopf, and Erika Lowenkopf. She was predeceased by her daughter Melissa “Missi” Amy Fuller, who passed as a teenager. She is additionally survived by her grandchildren, Ethan, and Bennett Fuller, JoAnna, and Aryn Hensel (and was eagerly anticipating the arrival of a new granddaughter!), Madison Ramirez; Jakob Fuller, and Riley Fuller. She is survived by her siblings, Donna Rosado (late husband Norberto), Catherine Luckina, Robert and Nancy Luckina, Karen and Paul Kennedy, and her sister-in-law Shirley Luckina. She was predeceased by her siblings Donald Luckina, Claudia and Henry Trad, and Raymond Luckina. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, remembering her great-nephew, Elijah Sharma who preceded and she missed terribly, cousins, and her Aunt Gloria Cifonelli; her in-laws Nancy Paciello, Mary Beth and Jeff Testa, John and Anita Fuller, and Mary and Tom McOwen. Darlene was “besties” with Nancy Stagnitti for many years – they had many commonalities; and was close with her niece Tina Baily, who babysat Darlene’s children, and in the end cared for Darlene like no other. Anne Joslyn was a great companion and they shared their hearts after being reconnected in more recent years and she was available to Darlene to talk her through difficult times; and her nephew, Angel, who was raised as her own brother – they had a close bond and he visited along with his wife, Anita, so Darlene knew of their affection. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Darlene’s memorial gathering to be held on February 7, 2023, from 4:00PM-6:00PM at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. A closing farewell will follow at 6:00PM at the funeral home.

Darlene J. (Luckina) Lowenkopf

June 25, 1954 - January 30, 2023