Darleene Regan

Darleene Regan, a beloved matriarch, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2025, in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, at the age of 82. Born on September 16, 1943, in Milwaukee, WI, Darleene was a cherished daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who filled the lives of those around her with warmth, love, and kindness.

A true embodiment of generosity, Darleene was celebrated for her vibrant personality. Described as feisty, spunky, and sassy, she was known to be “everyone’s mom and gramma.” Her selfless spirit was evident in her countless contributions to her community; she made and donated hundreds of blankets to homeless shelters and graciously provided hats, gloves, scarves, and food to those in need. A passionate crafter, she was devastated by the closure of JoAnn Fabrics, which had been a source of joy for her creativity.

Darleene's legacy is rich with memories, particularly her talent for making and decorating cakes for family celebrations, which brought cherished joy to her loved ones. Her pride and care for her family shone brightly throughout her life. She will be deeply missed by her family, including her children Jonathon, Cathy (Kenneth Sr.) Smith, Janet (Michael) Puffer, Christopher (Nadine) Regan, and Kimberly (Dave) Idell. She was especially proud of her many grandchildren: Patrick Regan, Kevin Regan (Amanda Guhl), Joshua Regan, Emily Regan, John Paul Regan, Cynthia Habersat, Kenneth Smith Jr. (Adri), David (Kristina Hanan) Smith, Abigail Smith (Julian Nunez), Elyzabeth Smith, Kaemaree Puffer, Elizabeth (Thomas) Galecki, Sean Chojnacki (Laura Hawley), Ryan Chojnacki (Eden Decorah), Tyler Regan (Aubrey Newell), Lilly Clement-Regan, Aydian Regan, Isabelle Regan, Samantha Falstad, Alyxxandria Idell, Ciara (Nate) Duran, Kadee Idell, Kane Idell, and great grandchildren Dominic, Danika, and Darleene Regan, Evelyn Habersat, Zion Nunez, Zara Nunez, Ezekiel Puffer, Alister Chojnacki, Gabriel Chojnacki, Iris Chojnacki, Evelynn Regan, Iridessa Idell, Avenly Duran, Jaxon Durand, Olivia Durand, and Kolton Duran.

Darleene’s heart began its new journey when she reunited with her soulmate, Patrick Regan, who preceded her in death in 2014. Their love story, which began when they met in 1961, was a testament to a deep, abiding bond that only true partners could share. Also preceding her in death were her daughter Sherry Regan and granddaughter Darleene Mckayla Regan, whose absence has been felt deeply by their family.

The family extends heartfelt appreciation to Greenfield EMS, the compassionate staff of Froedtert Hospital on the 9th floor NT, Horizon Hospice staff, Dr. David Grambow, Dr. Michael VonRuden and his staff, and Fr. Bill for their unwavering support and love throughout the years.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during the visitation on December 9, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 11:45 AM, at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, located at 3722 South 58th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53220. A Mass will follow at noon and extend until 1:00 PM.

Darleene Regan leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and creativity that will forever be cherished and remembered by all who knew her.