Darwin Carl Van Gelder died on Thursday, July 6, 2023.

He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years Lanor (Aaron) Van Gelder, daughter Tammy (Van Gelder) Robinson, son-in-law Michael Robinson of Arizona, grandsons: Austin Van Gelder of Arizona, Ryan Reilly of Illinois, siblings: Rodney Van Gelder of Michigan, Jean (Van Gelder) Tjarks/Wayne Tjarks of Michigan, Charles "Chuck" Van Gelder/Rachelle van Gelder of Iowa, Terry "Pete" Van Gelder of Iowa and Paul "Red" Van Gelder/Leesa Van Gelder of Iowa, uncles: Johnnie Van Gelder of Iowa, Harvey DeGroot of South Dakota, aunts: Kathy Van Whye of Iowa, Janice Mouw of California and several nieces, nephews, cousins, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law and friends.

Darwin never wanted anyone to be sad with his passing, so he always expressed that he wanted a celebration of life in lieu of a funeral. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, September 9, 2023 with location to be determined.

A complete obituary will be published in the Ladysmith News and Eau Claire Leader Telegram.