Jack Darling
Jack Dwayne Darling, 70, of Sterling, Colorado, peacefully passed away on June 18, 2025, while courageously working to better his life with the unwavering support of his loving family. Born on March 17, 1955, Jack lived a rich and adventurous life filled with passion, dedication, and love for his family and the natural world.
Throughout his life, Jack embraced many paths with characteristic enthusiasm. He served as a licensed LPN for several years, bringing compassion and care to his nursing practice. He also worked as a roughneck in the oil fields, demonstrating his strong work ethic and determination.
Alongside his late wife Joan Nelson, with whom he shared 10 wonderful years of marriage, Jack was devoted to teaching his children and grandchildren about the beauty and wisdom of nature.
Jack’s heart belonged to the outdoors. He found joy in walking along the river, artifact hunting (always mindful to “leave no trace”), stargazing under Colorado’s vast skies, and tending to his beloved bees with genuine passion. When indoors, Jack channeled his love of the earth’s bounty into canning produce from his flourishing homegrown garden. He filled his home with music, playing piano with skill and heart, while cherishing every moment spent with his “munchkins” (his children) and grandchildren.
In his later years, Jack’s curiosity and appreciation for life’s treasures continued to grow. He collected unique rocks and artifacts, pursued various crafting projects, immersed himself in music, and found wisdom in his extensive collection of books and recipes. Whatever Jack chose to do, he approached with complete dedication and gave his very best effort.
As a son, brother, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, cousin, and treasured friend, Jack touched countless lives with his warmth, wisdom, and generous spirit. His legacy of love, adventure, and connection to nature will continue to inspire all who knew him.
Jack was preceded in death by his mother Gertrude Bernice Mitchell, father Fred Dean Darling, stepfather James Preston Mitchell, beloved wife Joan Marie Nelson, daughter Joiakim Korin Shortino, and son Jason James Darling.
He is survived by his dear best friend Josh Vass; daughter Josephine (Kolt) Jones and her three children; daughter Johanna Griffith and her three children; four children of his late daughter Joia; sisters Connie (Milo) Mills and Carol (Bud) Waterman; brothers Keith (Susie) Darling, Randy Darling, Kenny Mitchell, and Ray Mitchell; aunts Irene and Doris; nine great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and one nephew; and numerous friends and family members whom he loved deeply.
Memorial Service will be held Tuesday, July 8th, 2025 at 10:00 am at Tennant Funeral Home in Sterling, Colorado. Thoughts and memories of Jack may be shared at any time with the family. In lieu of flowers, cards may be sent in care of Tennant Funeral Home PO Box 1547, Sterling, Colorado 80751.
Jack’s spirit lives on in the rivers he walked, the gardens he tended, the music he played, and most especially in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him. From Jack “gute Nacht. I love you all more then your’ll ever know. I hope I impacted your lives as greatly as you have mine, ich liebe dich”