June Darlene Shear, born in Wabash County on March 13, 1940, to Harold and Mabel June (Lauer) Watson, passed away on February 13, 2025, at Timbercrest Healthcare Center in North Manchester. Darlene’s journey through life was marked by her unwavering dedication to family, career, and her faith.
Darlene’s professional legacy began after her graduation from South Whitley High School in 1958, followed by her training at Warner Beauty School, where she graduated in 1960. For fifteen years, she applied her talents as a beautician, serving clients in the Urbana and North Manchester areas. Her commitment to her work and her clients set the foundation for a fulfilling career. After this, she transitioned into housekeeping at Timbercrest Senior Living, where Darlene dedicated twenty-seven years of her life, retiring in 2005. For five of those years, she held the position of Head Housekeeper, where she was known for her compassionate care for the residents she served, embodying a spirit of kindness and service that touched many lives.
On April 2, 1959, Darlene married her high school sweetheart, Edward Schwartz, at Camp Pendleton in Oceanside, California. Their marriage was cut tragically short when Edward passed away in a car accident in August 1966. Darlene carried the memory of Edward with her, raising their two beloved children, James and Amy, with love and perseverance.
A talented needleworker, Darlene indulged in her creative passions, producing beautiful works that reflected her attention to detail. Above all, Darlene held a deep love for her family, particularly her grandchildren, whom she supported unwaveringly and always sought to know how they were doing. This dedication to her family was a testament to her nurturing spirit and the joy she found in their happiness.
Darlene was an active member of the Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in North Manchester, contributing her time and effort to assist with many church lunches and participating as a member of the ELCA Women’s group. She found joy in her faith and community involvement, enriching the lives of those around her.
The loving memory of Darlene Shear will be forever cherished by her children, James “Jim” (Jenny) Shear, North Webster and Amy (Todd) Bechtold, South Whitley; and grandchildren, Clarice Elizabeth Shear, Silas James Shear, Cole Watson Bechtold, and Cade Lamar (Reagan) Bechtold. Darlene was preceded in death by her parents; and husband, Edward Schwartz.
A private graveside will be held at South Whitley Cemetery, at a later date.
For those who wish to honor the memory of Darlene Shear, memorial contributions may be made to the Timbercrest Charitable Assistance Fund, 2201 East Street, North Manchester, Indiana 46962 or Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, 113 West Main Street, North Manchester, Indiana 46962.
“I may never spoil you with money, but I will spoil you with love” – Darlene Shear
The family has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.
Condolences may be emailed to mckeemortuary.com
