Darlene Zins

Darlene Zins, age 80 of Circle Pines, passed away peacefully on November 3, 2022. Preceded in death by her parents, Charles & Amy Drury; husband, Dennis; sisters, Virginia & Beatrice; and brother, Charles. She is survived by her children, Aleesha (Paul) Zins-Habstritt, Erik Zins and Derek Zins; granddaughter, Zoe Anne Zins; former daughter-in-law, Stephanie Zins; and bonus son, Mark Mellen.

Darlene was born on January 28, 1942 in Benson, Minnesota. She attended and received her elementary education degree from Saint Cloud State University and began teaching in Winthrop before moving to Gillette Children's Hospital to provide education to pediatric patients. She married Dennis Zins on August 9, 1969 and the two eventually settled in Circle Pines and started their family. Darlene left the hospital to raise her children and after they were grown, went back to substitute teaching for the Centennial School District.

Darlene was a member of Abiding Savior Lutheran Church in Mounds View where she made many friends. After Dennis' death in 1994 she became involved, volunteering at the church for over 20 years. She loved watching Hallmark movies, reading and doing various sorts of puzzles.

Darlene was a devoted mom and grandma to the very end. She will be deeply missed by all those who knew her.

A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.