It is with sorrow and gratitude that we mark the passing of Darwin DeVries, 95, — sorrow at the loss, gratitude for the life.
Some lives speak quietly; his is one such story.
The story begins in 1929, with the arrival of a life that would be cherished by many.
Darwin held deeply to the Lutheran faith — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew him best.
Service is one chapter of a life, but for those who serve, it shapes every other.
The service will be broadcasted at https://www.facebook.com/HofmeisterJonesFuneralHome Darwin DeVries, 95 of Viborg, passed away on April 13, 2025 at the Pioneer Memorial Nursing Home. Memorial Service will be at 11:00 AM Monday, April 28, 2025 at the Bethany Lutheran Church, Viborg. Visitation will be from 3:00-5:00 PM Sunday, April 27, 2025 at the church. Arrangements provided by Hofmeister-Jones Funeral Home.Darwin James DeVries, the son of Jake and Della (Erickson) DeVries, was born December 3, 1929, on a farm near Davis, SD. He graduated from Hurley High School in 1948. After graduation, Darwin and two of his buddies; Gene Larsen and Harlan Lakings, enlisted in the Navy where Darwin spent 3 years on a destroyer in the Pacific. He was a proud Korean War Veteran and in 2017 he had the opportunity to go to Washington, DC, on one of the Midwest Honor Flight.Darwin was united in marriage to Doris Westegaard on June 4, 1953. They made their home on a farm southeast of Viborg where they raised their 5 children. Darwin enjoyed being a farmer and was very grateful to be able to live in the country and raise his family there.In 1982, Darwin accomplished a lifelong dream of learning to fly an airplane and becoming a licensed pilot. He and Doris enjoyed many fly-in breakfasts, and he loved taking friends and family for airplane rides.In retirement, he and Doris spent several winters in southern Texas, and many summers at the river camping and fishing. Darwin loved to stay busy, whether watching his grandkids and great grandkids at sporting events, helping friends and neighbors with projects or doing some woodworking in his shop.Most of all Darwin loved his family and spending time with them, visiting and catching up on their lives. He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Doris. Children: David DeVries, Luverne, MN, Mike (Jaime)DeVries, Chester, SD, Laurie Gilmore, Monroe, SD. Grandchildren: Jenny (Neal) Hanson, Annie (Dan)Dangel, Ben DeVries, Jesse (Blair)DeVries, Lindsey (Chris) McKenzie, Erin (Mitch) McNary, Jake (Samantha)Bymers, Jared (Sarah) Bymers. Great grandchildren: Brandon (Rosalyn) DeVries, Nick and Olivia Hanson, Daniel, Garrett, Emily and Owen Dangel, Lewis and Otto McKenzie, Griffin and Max McNary, Nathan, Oliver and Henry Bymers, Natalie, Lucas and Isabella Bymers, Great-great grandchild: Nora DeVries and baby DeVries due in August, several nieces and nephews and special niece Roxie Phillips, her husband Carlton and children Rachel and Brooke.Darwin was preceded in death by his parents, sister Elaine Larsen, sons Steve DeVries and Allan DeVries, daughter-in-law, Roxie DeVries and grandson Carson DeVries.
