Darlene “DAR” Alameda, a cherished member of the Modesto community, passed away peacefully with family by her side on December 4th, 2024, at the young age of 77. Just as she entered and lived in this world, Darlene went out with a zest for life. She made friends easily and had a natural gift of making children laugh.
Born on April 8th, 1947, at West Side Hospital in Gustine to her parents Mary Deniz and Tony Alameda Sr.
Darlene proudly served her country in the United States Coast Guard, a testament to her dedication and patriotism. Following her service, she devoted four decades of her professional life as a Bus Operator in Modesto, CA where she was known for her commitment and work ethic. Darlene was recently honored by having her picture dedicated to STANRTA bus #22261.Darlene had many bus driver friends that were like family to her. Darlene was a hard worker all her life; for two decades during her driving career, she held the bus cleaning contract for the City of Modesto Transit.
Darlene had a lot of interests she enjoyed, including camping and fishing. Darlene loved to visit the Sierras, especially River Ranch in Tuolumne. Darlene was an excellent cook and loved to BBQ just about anything you could throw on a grill. What little free time she had was spent restoring her 55’ Chevy and her 56’ Metro.
The Minnesota Vikings were Darlene’s lifetime team of choice. Darlene was a loyal and dedicated fan, and at one point she weathered a snowstorm at the Viking’s home stadium just to watch them ultimately lose to Dee’s Raiders.
She was predeceased by her mother, Mary Bickel (John Bickel), father Tony Alameda Sr., and sister, Cecelia Soares.
Darlene is survived by her fellow dog-obsessed Partner in Crime since 1989, Dee Michael, as well as Lamar, Kayla, and Jaishon Haywood. She also leaves behind her brother Tony Alameda Jr. (Mabel), brother Adrian Alameda (Janelle), sister Angie Mannel (Kevin), as well as several nieces, nephews, and many, many, many, great-nieces and great-nephews who will cherish her memory and strive to exemplify her fighting spirit.
A celebration of Darlene’s life will be held at Allen Mortuary in Turlock on Tuesday, December 17th, at 10:30 am, with a luncheon to follow at the Carnegie Arts Center. We invite those who are attending to wear something purple to pay tribute to her love of the Minnesota Vikings.
Leave a Condolence