ELLSWORTH — Darrell James Podlena, 71, passed away Saturday, Oct. 23, 2021, in Ellsworth, Kan. He was born Nov. 3, 1949, in Ellsworth to James and Doloris (Voeltz) Podlena.

Darrell graduated from Kanopolis High School in 1967, then attended Salina Vo-Tech. He started working at Independent Salt Mine in 1968. Darrell held several positions throughout the 48 years he worked at the mine before retiring in 2016 as Purchasing Manager. He knew a lot about the equipment and workings of the mine above and underground which made him very knowledgeable as the purchasing manager. Darrell was also one of the original members on the Independent Salt Mine Rescue Team and was a mine safety committee member.  

He enjoyed coyote and coon hunting, gardening and raising poultry and pigeons, bowling and traveling to all of his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events and activities. 

Darrell is survived by his son, David Podlena (Traci) of Topeka, Kan.; daughter, Ramona Blakley of Granbury, Texas; son, Daniel Podlena (Carrie) of Silver Lake, Kan.; daughter, Crystal Podlena of Holyrood; grandchildren, Donald, Jacque, Shayla, Dawson, Dray, Kensley, and Kylie; great grandchildren, Hazel and William; and brothers, Roger Podlena (Gwenna) of Kanopolis, Kan. and Robert Podlena of Lake Tapawingo, Mo. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Michael Podlena.

Visitation: 1-8 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 27, 2021, with family present 6-8 p.m., at Parsons Funeral Home, Ellsworth. Graveside funeral service: 11 a.m., Thursday, Oct. 28, 2021, at Kanopolis Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to the family, c/o, Parsons Funeral Home, PO Box 45, Ellsworth, KS 67439. Condolences can be made at parsonsfh.com.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Parsons Funeral Home

P.O. Box 45

Ellsworth, KS  67439

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Oct. 27, 2021