It is with heavy hearts that the family of Darlene Gale “Doll” Swiglo share her passing on June 27, 2025, at Maple Street Manor in Pe Ell, Washington, at the age of 90. She was born on Sept. 14, 1934, in Chehalis, Washington, to Jacob and Stephanie Sturza. She attended St. Joseph’s Catholic School and in 1952 graduated from W.F. West.
She worked as an usher at a local movie theater and also at St. Helens Hospital. She met her future husband, Jerome (Jerry) Swiglo, on a blind date. Darlene and Jerry shared many interests, including their birthdays.
She had a love for country music. In her younger days, she sang on the local radio station and also on occasion sang with Tex Ritter at the Playquato Dance Hall. Music was always in the background at her home.
After Jerry returned from Korea, they married on June 25, 1955. They moved to Pe Ell and purchased a gas station, which they owned until his death in 2005. He was the mechanic and she the “parts runner.” They raised four children just blocks from this business. She was very active. She loved gardening, tole painting, sea and outdoor canvas painting, canning, antiques and skiing. Darlene’s husband Jerry and son Jon were involved in car racing for many years. It was a weekly event which she loved. She was their No. 1 fan.
A dedicated member of the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Pe Ell, she held the position of Altar Society president for many years and was very involved with taking care of the flowers and linens for many years. She had a large collection of angels, which she displayed all over her home. A huge Seahawks fan, many prayers were said for her favorite team. Her grandchildren were invited to stay at Nana and Papa’s on many occasions. She loved spoiling them any chance she could get. Sometimes, the kids’ parents had a tough time coaxing them back home.
Darlene leaves behind daughter Lisa (Steve) Mohoric of Sun Lakes, Arizona; son Jay (Renee) Swiglo of Beaverton, Oregon; and son Jon Swiglo of Curtis, Washington; grandchildren Reid (Dana) Mohoric of Adna, Washington, Nicholas (Sara) Mohoric of Brooklyn, New York, Amanda (Eric) Mohoric of Gilbert, Arizona, and Leyna Swiglo of Beaverton, Oregon; great-grandchildren Chase and Lia Mohoric; and brother Tom Sturza.
Darlene is preceded in death by her parents; beloved daughter, Lynnett Louise Swiglo; brother, Jack Sturza; and sisters Elsie Hofmann, Matilda McCombs and Helen Gross.
Darlene will be forever remembered and forever missed.
The family will have a private celebration at a later date.
