Darlene Mae Riess

Darlene Mae Riess, 88, passed away on April 21, 2026, in Rochester, Minnesota.

She was born on May 16, 1937, in Rochester to Leonard and Margaret Schoonover. On August 31, 1956, she married Stanley Riess in Rochester, Minnesota. They shared 55 years of marriage before his passing, building a life centered on love, family, and cherished memories.

Darlene was known for her strength and deep devotion to her family. She cherished time spent with loved ones and created lasting memories through shared experiences and simple joys. Darlene always had an open-door policy around her kitchen table, where family and friends were welcomed, stories were shared, and everyone felt at home.

Darlene enjoyed traveling to Mexico with family and friends, where she made many treasured memories. She also found peace in bird watching, especially cardinals, and was an avid bowler in her younger years.

She was employed with Olmsted Medical Group and Olmsted Medical Center for over 30 years prior to her retirement, where she dedicated herself to caring for others in her community.

She is survived by her daughters, Cindy Sleeper (Bentley) of Rochester and Jill Riess (Terry McGill) of Rochester; her son, Dale Riess (Kris) of Rochester; her grandchildren, Amanda, Bill, Joe, Briana, Ryan, Lindsey, and Blake; and 12 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters, Alice Laudon (Curt) of Rochester, Lois Law (Bob) of Kasson, and Vicki Schoonover of Rochester; and her brother, Zan Schoonover (Dana) of Oceanside, California.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Leonard and Margaret Schoonover; her husband, Stanley Riess; her son, David Riess; and her grandson, Braden Riess.

A celebration of life will be held from 2:30-5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at Ranfranz and Vine Remembrance and Reception Centre, 5482 Royal Place NW, Rochester, MN. Burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery.

Darlene will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.

Memorials can be directed to Eagles Cancer Telethon and Mayo Hospice.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Riess family.