Darrell E. Sargent, 78, Pacific Junction

Darrell E. Sargent, age 78, of Pacific Junction, died March 31, 2009, at his home. Funeral services were held Saturday, April 4, 2009, at Peterson Mortuary in Glenwood. Pastor Mark Smeltzer officiated. Interment was in the Glenwood Cemetery.

Mr. Sargent was born June 30, 1930, in Omaha to Lee and Cecil (Lee) Sargent. He was raised on the family farm in rural Pacific Junction and spent his youth hunting, fishing and trapping in the slough and Missouri River. He attended school in Pacific Junction until he was a junior and transferred his senior year to Glenwood High School, graduating with the Class of 1948. Following graduation, he attended Iowa State College and enrolled in the R.O.T.C. program. He utilized the skills from his background and led the rifle team, which won the national trials. While in Ames, he received his pilot’s license. It was during this time in college that he met his future bride, Carol Joyce Yestness. After graduating from Ames, the couple united in marriage on June 21, 1955, in Doon. Mr. Sargent then faithfully served his country during the end of the Korean Conflict in the Army. Following his return, he began farming on the homestead. Darrell was a passionate member of the John Birch Society and exercised his beliefs in the U.S. Constitution. He was a devoted family man and avid reader. He enjoyed passing on his patriotic and spiritual heritage to his children and grandchildren.

Preceding him in death were his parents and wife Carol in 1997. He is survived by his children, Don and wife Miria Sargent of San Diego, Calif.; Bill and wife Susie Sargent; Marilyn and husband Jeff Fife; and brother Merrill Sargent, all of Pacific Junction; nine grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; two nephews, extended relatives and a host of friends.

Memorials may be directed to the John Birch Society or Pacific Junction Fire Department.