Darlene Plavec (nee Reichert) entered eternal peace with her Savior after bravely fighting a 10-year battle with Alzheimer's disease. For the last five years of her life, she was a resident of The Cottages at Cedar Community in West Bend, where she received compassionate and dedicated care from the staff. The family is also deeply grateful for the kindness and support provided by Commonheart Hospice during her final days.

Darlene was born and raised in West Bend. She graduated from West Bend High School and married John Plavec, on November 7, 1963, at Holy Angels Church. She worked at Regal Ware for 47 years, where she built a long and dedicated career.

Darlene enjoyed bowling, listening to country music, taking walks, and caring for her home and family. She found joy in life's simple pleasures.

Darlene is survived by her daughters, Wendy Vujnovich (Joe) and Holli Thierer; her grandchildren, Frank and Ashley Blaine, and Elizabeth and Andrew Thierer; her great-grandchildren, Aiden and Fredrick Cantrell; her sister, Joanne Heineck; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, John Plavec; her parents, Herbert and Florence (née Schaefer) Reichert; as well as her sister, brother, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, and nephews.
Funeral services will be held for Darlene at Phillip Funeral Home on Tuesday, July 21,2026 at 3:00 P.M. The family will receive guests in the funeral home from 1:00-2:45 P.M.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Cedar Community's Partners in Caring Charitable Fund are appreciated.