Darlene Faye Tuenker

Darlene Tuenker passed away peacefully on August 20, 2026, at Kinsington at Redwood Park Memory Care.

Darlene was born on April 1, 1937, to Clarence and Hazel Magnuson in Hillsboro, Oregon. She graduated from Hillsboro High School and, in the 1950s, moved with her parents and sister, Pamala, to Southern California. There, she became a stewardess for Pan Am and eventually United Airlines. She flew around the world and cherished this chapter of her life.

In 1966, Darlene’s daughter, Shana, was born. In 1970, Darlene met and married Bruno Tuenker, and in 1971, the three of them moved to Grants Pass, Oregon.

In 1974, at the age of 37, Darlene became the youngest volunteer to join the Asante Auxiliary as a Pink Lady. She went on to become the longest-serving volunteer, dedicating more than 52 years to the organization. She also served a nine-year term on the Board of Directors for the Asante Foundation.

Darlene was known for her enthusiastic advocacy for outstanding care in the community, as well as for being an excellent ambassador for the hospital and the Auxiliary. She touched many lives and had a special gift for making people feel seen, heard, and cared for.

Darlene was a member of the PEO sisterhood and sang with the local chapter of Sweet Adelines. She was also a member of River Valley Church.

Darlene was passionate about exercise and staying active. She took tennis and golf lessons and practiced yoga. She was a founding member of Club Northwest and maintained her membership until 2024. She loved hiking in the beautiful mountains surrounding Grants Pass. She also enjoyed arranging flowers and spending time with her friends and family.

Darlene is survived by her daughter, Shana Ford (Joe Porto); grandchildren, Zach Ford (Kimmy) and Kasaundra Van Syoc (Elliot); four great grandchildren and loved ones. She was preceded in death by her parents, sister Pamala, former husband Charlie Dugger, and beloved husband, Bruno Tuenker.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 12, at 11:00 a.m. at Hull & Hull Funeral Home, 612 NW A Street, Grants Pass, OR 97526.

A gathering will be held at the funeral home immediately following the service.

Flowers may be sent to Hull & Hull Funeral Home, or donations may be made to a charity of your choice.