Darrell James Kane

Darrell J. Kane, age 78, of Appleton, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, January 3, 2026. He was born on October 21, 1947, in Green Bay, the son of the late Michael and Katherine (Rukamp) Kane.

Darrell proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps for seven years, including one tour in Vietnam. He remained deeply proud of his service throughout his life and was a longtime member of the Denmark VFW.

On April 30, 2005, Darrell married Gaye Evansen in Freedom, Wisconsin. Together they shared a life rooted in love, partnership, faith and quiet strength.

Darrell devoted 55 years to the IUOE Local 139, building a respected career as a heavy equipment operator and serving the union with pride in leadership roles including Member Agent and Financial Secretary. Known for his strong work ethic and loyalty, he took great pride in his work and the responsibilities entrusted to him. A man grounded in faith, Darrell lived his beliefs through consistency and humility. Above all, he was a devoted family man and the proud father of two sons, supporting them wholeheartedly in all they pursued. He cherished his role as a grandfather and deeply loved his granddaughters, finding great joy in time spent with them. Earlier in life, Darrell cared deeply for his stepchildren, including his stepdaughter Kathy and his stepson Ray, who preceded him in death. Darrell valued time with friends, was known for his great sense of humor, and appreciated the simple pleasure of a good drive or a round of golf. Especially alongside his wife, Gaye, his partner in life and the one who remained by his side to the very end.

He is survived by his wife, Gaye; his sons, Jesse (Shelley) Kane and Ryan (Paige) Kane; his grandchildren, Hailey, Jordan, Sadie, Reagan, and Mayla; his siblings, Leonard (Patti) Kane, Kevin (Julie) Kane, and Jolene Boehm; and a special great-niece, Sydney Scott Fonferek; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Darrell was preceded in death by his brother, Scott Kane.

Family and friends may visit at Cotter Funeral Home – Denmark (536 County Road R) on Friday, January 9, from 9:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. Friends are then asked to meet at St. Mary Catholic Church, Stark (7016 County Road NN, Denmark) for a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m., with Fr. Xavier Amirtham, O. Praem, officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with full military honors.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Gaye for her unwavering love, support, and devoted care of Darrell.