Obituary of Darlene Florence Drittenbas

Darlene Florence Drittenbas (Dar), 86, peacefully passed away in Jackson, California, on

March 27, 2024. She had recently been diagnosed with cancer.

Dar was born in Portland, Oregon, to Fred and Vesta Drittenbas (Keesling) on May 2, 1937. Dar was raised together with her brother, Edwin, and sister, Geri, in San Pablo, California. As an adult, she worked with her parents in their nursery, and learned the art of flower arranging. Her love of plants and flowers continued her entire life.

Dar was an avid bowler and, for a time, bowled professionally.  She was proud to be part of the winning team representing the United States in a match with Canada.  In the 1970s she met her lifelong dear friend and partner, Mary Manson, while bowling. Dar went on to manage a retail store, Tap Plastics, in San Jose, for many years.  In the mid-1970s Dar moved with Mary to Pioneer, California, where they built a home and started a janitorial business together. She worked long, hard hours but made time for her love of golfing, fishing, and occasionally playing slots at the local casino. Dar loved animals and was known to frequently adopt many of them—especially cats--that made their way to her home.

Dar was preceded in death by her parents, brother, and sister. She is survived by her friend and partner, Mary, and Mary’s son, Leo Manson; daughter-in-law, Ann Manson; grandchildren Katie (Manson) and Mike Riddle, Bobby and Leah Manson, Kimmy Manson, Ben Whipple; and great-granddaughter Ellie Manson. Dar loved Mary’s family, including Charlie the dog, as her own. Dar will also be missed by many friends.

To celebrate Dar’s life, a casual gathering of friends will be held at Kit Carson Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, 811 Court Street, Jackson, California, on Saturday, May 18, 2024, at 4 p.m. Her ashes will be spread privately in meaningful locations by Mary’s family.