Darrell D. Libke

Darrell D. Libke

Darrell D. Libke, 74, passed away at the UI Hospitals in Iowa City on September 18, 2018, from complications of cancer surgery. Visitation will be held Sunday, September 23, from 4 – 8 P.M. at Becker-Milnes Funeral Home in Sumner and for one hour preceding the funeral Monday at the church. Funeral services will be at 10:30 on Monday, September 24 at St. John Lutheran Church in Sumner with Rev. Tracy Hinkel officiating. Interment will follow at Union Mound Cemetery in Sumner. Becker-Milnes Funeral Home is in charge of services.

Darrell Libke was born July 12, 1944, in Aurelia, Iowa, son of Albert and Alice (Lydell) Libke. He graduated from Aurelia High School in 1962 and Buena Vista College in 1966. In 1975 he earned an MA degree from UNI in speech with emphasis in oral interpretation.

In 1975 he married Nancy Samuelson; they made their home in Sumner. Together they shared many great travels, exploring the U.S. and its history, enjoying all types of theatre throughout the Midwest, and discovering great restaurants. Their daughter Adrianne was a wonderful addition to their lives, joining them in numerous adventures even from an early age. They joyfully welcomed son-in-law Ryan and later, grandchildren Norah and Grant.

Darrell began his teaching career in Malvern and later, Glenwood in southwest Iowa. In 1970 he began a 30-year career at West Central, Maynard, teaching high school English, coaching both group and individual contest speech, and directing countless plays and musicals. In 2001 he was inducted into the Iowa High School Speech Association Hall of Fame. After retirement his love of teaching led him back to West Central for long-term substituting and as an adjunct instructor for NICC until 2017.

Darrell was an active member of St. John Lutheran Church in Sumner; through the years he served as a deacon, confirmation teacher, scripture reader, and part of the ‘counting team.’

Beyond his family, career and church, Darrell took pride in community. He was a charter member of the Sumner Lions Club and later returned to active involvement in fundraising activities, as well as serving in several officer positions. In 2012 he was honored by being named a Melvin Jones Fellow through the Lions Club. Darrell also worked with the local United Fund for several years to help the community. The Sumner Community Theatre benefitted from his efforts on stage, behind the scenes, and as a director. In later years he continued judging for the Iowa High School Speech Association, as well as serving as an officer for the Hall of Fame.

Although he always said teaching was his real hobby, puzzles, staying current on the news (and talking back at it), clipping coupons, and visiting with people were his everyday pleasures. Time spent with kids, grandkids, his sister, cousins, and friends was always the best.

Darrell was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Duane and Dennis. He is survived by his wife, daughter, son-in-law, grandchildren, sister Ellen, sister-in-law Leann, cousins, and nieces.

John Phelps on October 8, 2018 at 4:24 PM said:

I had Mr. Libke as a teacher in his first job at Malvern. I have great memories of doing plays that he directed. When I was a senior we did "Our Town". Mr. Libke was a good teacher and a very fun guy. He wasn't that much older than his students at Malvern and was a good friend. Sorry to hear of his passing. I think of him often.

virgil beukelman on October 8, 2018 at 12:31 PM said:

Nancy, I taught vocal music at Malvern High School from 1966 thru 1968. We had apartments in the same house in Malvern. Had some good times with Darrell. Was hoping to see him at the reunion.

I send my condolences to you and your family.

Virgil
vbdukdlman@gmail.com

Glenda Schweitzer on September 27, 2018 at 8:11 AM said:

My condolences to your family. I was a teaching colleague of Darrel's from 1979-1986 at Maynard. Many a free period was spent chatting, laughing, solving world problems. Lots of fun memories. He is a man gone too soon.mrllq

Jason Rechkemmer on September 25, 2018 at 11:29 AM said:

A great man and wonderful teacher. He will be missed and not forgotten.

Angie ( Wescott ) Stark class of 1987 on September 24, 2018 at 6:47 PM said:

Prayers to your family during your sorrows. Mr. Libke played a huge role of a mentor during my last two years of high school. He helped me shine in his speech class and individual speech. He was an awesome teacher and friend.

Diane Weltner on September 24, 2018 at 7:14 AM said:

My deepest sympathy to Darrell's family. I was so saddened to hear the news of Darrell's passing. He was such a caring & compassionate person. I loved his laugh & our visits when he came into the bank. I remember how excited he was about going on the Alaskan Cruise with Nancy last fall together. He told me how they had such a wonderful time & I am so glad he was able to go. RIP Darrell, you will be greatly be missed by all.

Sherri Johnson Null (Class of 1973) on September 24, 2018 at 3:42 AM said:

I am deeply saddened to hear of the loss of Mr. Libke. He was always my favorite teacher & I have fond memories of participating in the musicals he directed at West Central. He was always kind, giving and was a true mentor. My thoughts and prayers go out to you, Nancy and your family. Sincerely, Sherri

Allan Lang on September 23, 2018 at 6:05 PM said:

My sincere sympathy for all of Darrell Libke family.
You will be missed at the theaters.
Allan Lang

Miriam Peterson Baker on September 23, 2018 at 5:47 PM said:

Darrell attended Trinity Lutheran Church in Alta, Iowa in his youth and was confirmed there around 1958. I was 2 years younger and we were in Luther League at the same time. I recognized his name as a I read the Waterloo Courier obituaries. I was impressed with his career in education, speech and play activities, and community volunteerism. My sympathy to your family.

Scott Strempke and Sandy Strempke on September 23, 2018 at 4:11 PM said:

Sorry for your loss He was a great teacher
Sorry for your loss. He was a great teacher

Ron Parmley your old Schwans man on September 23, 2018 at 11:55 AM said:

I am very sorry to hear about Darrell. Many memories stopping by as your Schwans man.

Lois Erickson on September 22, 2018 at 8:23 PM said:

English class was my favorite class with Mr. Libke. That is, of course, except for speech! He could always count on my five minute speeches to be 5 minutes and 2 seconds and would always laugh at how close I could come to that 5 minute mark. Then he would give me the timer to time all the other speeches. He was always a joy to visit with whenever our paths would meet. I was glad that my kids had him as a teacher, too. Mr. Libke, you will be missed by all who knew you. My sympathy to you, Nancy, and all of his family. May God give you comfort in the days and months to come.

Marcia (Knief) Dlouhy on September 22, 2018 at 5:21 PM said:

I am so very sorry for your loss. I learned so much from Mr Libke and really enjoyed speech due to him! We always had so much fun with our musicals and his laughter was the best! Thoughts and prayers for all of you.

Pam Raffel Helland - West Central Class of 1971 on September 22, 2018 at 5:18 PM said:

Dear Nancy and family: I am sorry about the loss of Darrell. May the Lord comfort you now and in the days to come.

Libke Family on September 22, 2018 at 1:35 PM said:

My heart is hurting for your hurting hearts. I will be praying over your family and the healing of you hearts. Life is a series of changes good or bad. Just know you have your community to lean on!

Steve Williams on September 22, 2018 at 10:51 AM said:

So sorry to learn of Darrell's death.
What a great guy and so great in working with Iowa High School Speech and Iowa Speech Hall of Fame.

Bill and Kari Bunn class of 76 & 77 on September 22, 2018 at 9:29 AM said:

So sorry for your loss. Mr. Libke was a great influence in many young lives and we remember him as having unique handwriting also. May you find peace in your memories.

Julie Recker Bundy (Class ‘75) on September 22, 2018 at 5:33 AM said:

So sorry to hear this news. Mr. Libke was a great teacher. His lessons and encouragement in public speaking helped me greatly in my professional life. I loved his laugh!

Denny & Kathy Lenth on September 21, 2018 at 8:57 PM said:

Sending our thoughts and prayers to Nancy and the family. Such a fine teacher and a wonderful person. All the notes from past students and friends show how highly regarded and respected Daryl was. He has touched so many students in such a positive way and will be missed.

Debbie Sieck on September 21, 2018 at 4:58 PM said:

Our condolences to your family. When working in the old WC building, you could tell where Darrell was because of his jovial laugh! It was truly from the heart!5dftQ4

Deb Eschweiler (formerly Klenk) on September 21, 2018 at 3:38 PM said:

Darrell was always a most respected colleague in teaching and speech coaching. I always looked forward to seeing him at the contests and conventions. He made everyone feel welcome and greeted each of us as dear friends. We counted him as our friend too along with dear wife Nancy. It is a great loss to us all but a treasure we will have forever in having known him. I know I will never forget his talent, kindness and gentle spirit. Nancy, I send you my love and hugs. I pray for your comfort in the days ahead. I am caring for my father in Marshalltown so will probably be unable to attend services but my thoughts will be with you. Love always, Deb (former speech coach, judge and teacher at Cedar Falls High School, Jesup High School, Nora Springs and judge at Mason City, Iowa) My condolences to your family.

Terry and Barb Reisner on September 21, 2018 at 1:39 PM said:

We are sad to hear of your loss. Mr. Libke was an amazing mentor and had a profound impact on our lives through several musicals, public speaking, and his encouragement of our endeavors.

Kristie Gibney on September 21, 2018 at 12:11 PM said:

I spent many hours in Mr. Libkes room during study halls , before and after school talking about books, practicing speeches, and trying to get that awesome laugh out of him! Some of my best high school memories of learning and having fun at the same time! Please take care, family! I’m sure he will be so missed by you!

Caryl (Rubner) Cushion on September 21, 2018 at 11:15 AM said:

Libke family, keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. He was a wonderful teacher.

Derek Friederich (Speech Coach, Postville) on September 21, 2018 at 11:15 AM said:

Darrell was a great judge at contest. I once had a student who hadn't taken the time to learn his lines for his acting piece at conference contest, but I made him perform anyway, just for comments. Darrell was his judge. After the performance, Darrell had a blunt talk with my student about not being prepared for contest and how he was letting great talent go to waste. Darrell told him exactly what we needed to hear in that moment and over the next week, my student did learn all of his lines and even took the piece to state the following year. I credit Darrell for not sugarcoating anything, but still encouraging this young man to be his very best. I'll miss seeing Darrell at contest. My condolences.

Dewitt Jones on September 21, 2018 at 9:57 AM said:

Darrell was an awesome educator and a terrific person. So sorry for the family’s loss.

Donna Durey Kunde on September 21, 2018 at 9:34 AM said:

Nancy and family: I so enjoyed the years I was asked to judge speech at Sumner and Maynard. Such well run contests. Darrell was a life force, always wanting the best for all the students that chose to participate in speech and drama. His energy and enthusiasm was contagious. He was a part of a group of wonderful speech coaches our students in NE Iowa benefited from knowing and growing with.

Diana Schwarz Hardman (Class '75) on September 21, 2018 at 9:11 AM said:

So sorry to hear of your loss. Mr. Libke was a great teacher and mentor. My deepest sympathy to all of you.

J'Andrea Kolsto Gibney on September 21, 2018 at 8:51 AM said:

Such a wonderful man and fun to be around. Thinking of all the family.

Rachel Martin (Class of 96) on September 21, 2018 at 8:29 AM said:

Mr. Libke introduced me to a love of speech that has stayed with me through the years. He always encouraged me to do my best. As a speech coach now, I am so thankful for the lessons that he taught me and that I can now pass them onto my students. Speech Coaches' Convention will not be the same without him, as I always looked forward to catching up with him there. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.

Connie Recker Meyer (West Central class of 1984) on September 21, 2018 at 6:30 AM said:

Nancy, Adrianne and family, sending my sympathy and prayers to all of you. Mr. Libke was an awesome teacher and person. I have so many great memories of plays, musicals and speech contests. He made a huge impact on me. Adrianne, I remember how excited and proud he was when you were born. He was always sharing pictures of you!

Kim Bosworth on September 20, 2018 at 9:32 PM said:

Thinking of you, Nancy and family. Darrell was a true example of a gentleman. He was a good friend and colleague. His teaching impacted many students over the years, and his expertise in speech inspired many coaches. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him. So very sorry for your loss. Hugs!

Kristi Smith Haas (WC Class of 95) on September 20, 2018 at 9:31 PM said:

Mr. Libke was one of my favorite teachers. He always took the time to help and enjoyed watching his students succeed! My prayers and condolences to your family.

Danielle Nelson (Hughson) on September 20, 2018 at 8:58 PM said:

For always encouraging me in all things written and even philosophical - for making a positive difference in so many students’ lives. You will be missed.

Jim Patera on September 20, 2018 at 8:51 PM said:

Darrell was an outstanding gentleman He was an excellent teacher who earned the respect of all who were associated with him. RIP my old friend. You will be missed.

MaryAnn McSweeny-Buhr (West Central Class Of 1974) on September 20, 2018 at 8:12 PM said:

What can I say about a teacher who believed in me, encouraged me to try out for the musical and participate in small group speech, created a Poetry Class for those of us who loved poetry, guided me through district and state speech contest, taught me to strive to be my very best, and taught me so many life lessons. Mr. Libke’s life lives on in each and every student he taught. Mr. Libke was a mentor to me and i know his influence is one of the reasons I pursued the teaching profession. Our deepest sympathy to Nancy and family. Michael & MaryAnn McSweeny-Buhr

MaryAnn McSweeny-Buhr (West Central Class Of 1974) on September 20, 2018 at 8:12 PM said:

Sherry Adrian Brayton on September 20, 2018 at 7:48 PM said:

Nancy and family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Hugs and prayers to you.

Jen Frieden on September 20, 2018 at 7:46 PM said:

As a fellow speech judge and former coach, I learned so much from Darrell. In his passion for the arts, his desire to give to and get the best from each student, his willingness to help and teach and always go beyond what was expected, he set an example. I always looked forward to being at the sample table with Darrell (and Nancy) and loved sharing stories of shows we'd seen, places traveled to and just talking.... Contest days will never be the same. My heart goes out to Nancy and the rest of the family. You are in my thoughts. <3

Barb Grabill on September 20, 2018 at 7:29 PM said:

Nancy and Adrianne, I am so sorry to hear about Darrell, my prayers are with you. May God flood you with His peace and comfort.

Emily Joecken on September 20, 2018 at 7:08 PM said:

Mr. Libke was one of my all time favorite teachers. His classes were always difficult and he expected a lot out of us. Despite this, he always had time for a little bit of joking around. We always gave him a hard time and he'd give it right back. You have my sympathy.

Nancy Collins on September 20, 2018 at 6:43 PM said:

Oh my, the many memories of speech coaching and dinner at the Brown Bottle after contest, painting sets and chatting away about popular songs and poetry. Wonderful man who loved teaching.

Stephanie Jean Hultman (WC Class of ‘75) on September 20, 2018 at 6:41 PM said:

So sorry to hear of Mr. Libke’s passing. He was a major influence on my life and played a huge role in my love for theater, plays, and public speaking .... forever teaching his students to aim high and reach for the stars. Always pushing us to the edge of our comfort zones. He will be missed by all. Nancy and family, may God give you strength at this most difficult time.....

Brad Steege on September 20, 2018 at 6:29 PM said:

So many memories ... So many came flooding back tonight. Speech large group and small. Musicals. Plays. The classroom. When you had Mr. Libke in a small class on literature... He soared. And took me, a student, with him. My love of literature, to this day, is because of him. To Nancy Libke and the family, I wish you peace. To Mr. Libke ... Thank you.

Carissa Kelley on September 20, 2018 at 5:46 PM said:

Thoughts and prayers are with you all. I will never forget how he made me laugh so hard I cried during speech contest. He was such a wonderful teacher and inspired so many. He taught us about how speech can change your life in so many wonderful ways and for that I am forever grateful.

Jayne Parsons (WC class of 74) on September 20, 2018 at 5:39 PM said:

So sorry to hear this news, my deepest sympathy to Nancy and the entire Libke family.

Karla Halter Duff ( WC 1986) on September 20, 2018 at 4:57 PM said:

Mr. L influenced so many in so many ways.
Literature, English, Writing, Speech, Drama, Smiles and Love to name a few
#TeacherGoals

Kim and Kathie Diemer on September 20, 2018 at 4:05 PM said:

We are so sorry to hear this. Our deepest sympathy to you all.

Elizabeth Cox Brand on September 20, 2018 at 3:59 PM said:

It greatly saddened my heart to read this news. Darrell Libke was such a cornerstone of my high school years at WCHS. Not only was he a wonderful teacher but also a confidant and friend who really cared about all of his students.
I have so many terrific memories of Mr. Libke that I will cherish always.
Much love to Nancy, Adrienne and the whole family.
Elizabeth (Buffy) Cox Brand

Tammy Lincoln Stasi on September 20, 2018 at 3:52 PM said:

Mr. Libke was one in a million! He loved what he did, and it showed! I was never a great speaker, in speech, or had major parts in plays, but he still cared about me as a student in his classes. He inspired many, and I think of him as I give speeches in front of others or read literature. Many, many people have great memories of him. He WILL live on through all of us!! Prayers to the family!!

Brenda And Dan Kirchmann on September 20, 2018 at 3:16 PM said:

sorry for you loss will miss him on Saturday night church sitting in front of us

Janice (Hofer) Marshall on September 20, 2018 at 2:29 PM said:

Mr. Libke was one of the first people to truly see my potential and to ignite my dreams. He also gave me the confidence to believe my dreams could come true. I’ve been an English professor for 26 years in part because of the independent, unapologetic kind of teacher he was. I’ll never forget him.

Amy (Baker) Brase on September 20, 2018 at 2:22 PM said:

Mr. Libke sparked and encouraged my love for creative writing and taught me so many things about analyzing literature, learning how to present, pantomime, etc. He was definitely one of the greats! I’m thankful for his imprint on my life and sad to see this news.

Tina (Hurley) Conroy (Class of ‘86) on September 20, 2018 at 2:10 PM said:

Thinking of Mr. Libke always brings a smile to my face! He made learning fun, and I always looked forward to his classes! His educational and life lessons will stay with me always! Peace to your family. <3

Russ Roquet on September 20, 2018 at 2:02 PM said:

Mr. Libke pushed me to be a better student and a better person. He challenged me to take roles in plays and events in Speech that I wouldn't have. That mentoring has continued to be a guide for me to this day.
He will be missed, but his impact and influence will go on through the many people he touched.
Yes, Darrell, Mr. Libke will be missed.

Bill & Cheryl Rummel (Class of 1972 & 1974) on September 20, 2018 at 1:32 PM said:

Our deepest sympathy to the family. Mr. Libke was a great teacher; always expecting students to give their best; regardless of level. And he always enjoyed his students, regardless. A great man, and a great role model! We were so fortunate to have Mr. Libke as our teacher; as were our two children. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.

Thomas Betz on September 20, 2018 at 1:09 PM said:

So sad that we lost a teacher and a mentor, he will be truly missed.

Kim Kaune Rogge class of 1984 on September 20, 2018 at 12:21 PM said:

Sorry to hear about this news.

Roger and Vicki Block on September 20, 2018 at 12:17 PM said:

We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Roger and I both respected, admired and appreciated Mr. Libke as a teacher. He was a tremendous teacher as well as a wonderful person. He will be greatly missed.

Susan Jensen on September 20, 2018 at 11:58 AM said:

Remember him well from his years at West Central. Family has our sympathy.

Ellen Paulus class of 1993 on September 20, 2018 at 11:38 AM said:

So sorry for your loss. He was a great teacher.

Rev. Tony D. Ede class of 1999 on September 20, 2018 at 11:24 AM said:

Mr. Libke was a constant reminder of student potential and a significant encouragement to me as a professional speaker, writer, and leader. Thank you for your legacy.

Jen Crawford Schmitt on September 20, 2018 at 11:17 AM said:

So very sorry to hear of his passing! I always enjoyed him as a teacher. He was always very helpful and extremely kind! He will be missed!

Kim Hillman Hardman (Class 75) on September 20, 2018 at 11:10 AM said:

So sorry to hear of this. Mr. Libke was a great teacher. Always encouraging you to do better. He had high expectations and help you reach your potential. My sincere condolences to his family.

Gail (Fagenbaum) Miller on September 20, 2018 at 10:54 AM said:

Prayers & comfort & hugs from us for the family.
May Gods gentle hand provide His peace.

Michelle Cole Class of 91 on September 20, 2018 at 10:35 AM said:

So sorry to hear of the loss of Mr. Libke. He affected so many young lives. Heaven gained an amazing angel.

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