Darlene E. (McColley) Zander, Age 89 of Burnsville, passed away on September 8, 2022.  Born January 19, 1933, to Erven and Emma (Swenson) McColley in Albert Lea, MN. Darlene married her high school sweetheart, Donald, in 1955.  They moved to Burnsville in 1961, living the same house for 60 years where they raised their 3 children (and a couple of dogs).Darlene was active in the community as a founding member of the Timberland Knolls Garden Club which later became Sweet Sioux and continued to be a member for over 50 years, she enjoyed her monthly meeting of Hanna's Circle at Faith Covenant Church and the many years with Dan Patch American Legion Auxiliary.

She was a proud grandma who took every opportunity to spend time with her grandkids:  Football, baseball, and hockey games along with dance recitals and competitions.  She was an always available babysitter and day care provider.

When her kids were young, she worked in the school cafeteria so that she'd always be home for the kids.  Later she showed her talents as a bookkeeper for several small businesses, including Zander Photography for 30 years.

Darlene is survived by her children: Scott (Karen) Zander, Craig (Leslie) Zander, Sharon (Brad) Heywood.  Her grandchildren:  Kyle (Madison) Zander, Joseph (Kaitlin Martiny) Zander, Thomas Heywood, Jonathan (Addy Larson) Heywood, Matthew Heywood, Emma (Stuart) Blue, Grace Heywood, and Sophia Zander. She is also survived by her sister Faye Kanne, sister-in-law Lois Spatenka , 7 nieces and nephews, 4 granddogs, and 3 great granddogs and 1 great grandkitty. She is preceded in death by her husband Donald Zander.

Memorial service will be held on Wednesday September 14, 2022, at 10:30 am at Faith Covenant Church 12921 Nicollet Ave, Burnsville. Visitation will take place 1 hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the M.O.M.S Program , an organization near to Darlene, or to the Alzheimer's Association