Darell Robert Hellenbrand

HELLENBRAND, DARELL R. LODI/BLUE MOUNDS-Darell R. Hellenbrand, age 58, died unexpectedly on Labor Day, September 2, 2013 after suffering a heart attack. Darell was born June 18, 1955. He grew up in Lodi. He attended the University of Wisconsin Madison and was employed for 35 years with the UW West Madison Ag Research Center, enjoying the work he did, his co-workers and most proud of his perfect compost rows. He retired in 2010. Darell, also known as “Tyges”, loved sports and was a gifted athlete. He often reminded friends of his accomplishments as “Blue Devil #26, named All Conference, 1973 Lodi Football”. Over the years he remained active in sports, joining teams in ice hockey and softball, enjoying golf and more recently, Bocce Ball. If he wasn’t playing a sport, he watched his favorites – the Packers, the Badgers and the Brewers. He was also an avid sportsman in deer hunting, trout and ice fishing. Darell loved people and could strike up a conversation with anyone he met. He especially enjoyed catching up with his friends at R&J’s, Miller High Life in hand. Wherever he went, his camo cap was secured firmly in place. He enjoyed browsing thrift shops, especially St. Vinnie’s. And at the end of the day he could be found watching old movie flicks, especially John Wayne, his favorite. During the winter months he plowed snow for Brunner Bobcat. Darell loved to dance, and he danced through life. Of all his many passions, he stood most tall with pride for his two sons, Jeremy and Brandon and grandchildren, Alexis and Cameron. Darell is survived by his soul mate, Debbie Brunner; sons, Jeremy (Stephanie) Hellenbrand, Brandon (fiancée Sarah Burdick) Hellenbrand; their mother, Colleen (Bob) Storck; two grandchildren, Alexis and Cameron Hellenbrand; brother, Dennis (Cathy) Hellenbrand; sisters, Pam (Doug) Peterson, Patricia (John) McCluskey; and his loyal companion Tucker. Darell was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Marian Hellenbrand; brothers, David and Dale Hellenbrand. Funeral services will be held at HAMRE GUNDERSON FUNERAL HOME, 157 S. Main St., Lodi at 7:00 PM on Monday, September 9, 2013 with Father Chad Droessler presiding. Visitation will be from 4:00 PM until the time of the service at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com The family would like to thank the efforts of the first responders, EMT’s and ER staff at St. Mary’s Hospital. Darell we love you and will miss you, especially your, “dashing good looks and piercing blue eyes” Hamre Gunderson Funeral & Cremation Care 157 S. Main Street, Lodi 608-592-3201