Memorial
Darlene Suchomel, 87, of Cedar Rapids, passed away on Monday, September 21, 2026. A celebration of life will be held on October 24, 2026, at 1:00 PM at the VFW Post 788 located at 3240 Southgate Place SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404.
Darlene was born to Walter and Martha (Chalupsky) Novak on August 1, 1939. She grew up on a farm outside of Ely and graduated from Wilson High School. At the very young age of twelve, Darlene discovered her passion for playing the accordion. She played throughout her life and eventually became president of the Iowa Accordion Club.
She married the love of her life, Leon Suchomel, on April 15 of 1961, and they were married for 56 years. They shared many joyful memories. Together they had one daughter, Cindy. Darlene loved time with family and was always getting everyone together for special occasions. Family was at the center of her life.
Darlene and Leon traveled often and went on many cruises together. Darlene would also accompany Leon to his USS Uhlmann reunions, where he would reconnect with his fellow service members from his time in the Navy. Darlene was a travel agent for more than 20 years, sharing her joy of travel with everyone she worked with.
Darlene always wanted to look her best. She didn’t go anywhere without having her hair and makeup done. Her family knew the dangers of messing up her hair, which she kept in perfect shape.
She is survived by her daughter Cindy (Kim) Schlitter; her grandchildren, Kelly (Brian) Coselman and Jeff (Tanya) Walters; her great-grandchildren, Leah Walters, Gage Walters, Bayla Walters, and Caitlyn Coselman; her brothers, Wayne (Diana) Novak, and Leonard Novak; and many nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Leon Suchomel; her parents, Walter and Martha Novak; and her great-grandson, Kaleb Walters.
Memorials may be directed to the family.