Darrell Schlange O.D., D.O.S.

Darrell Gene Schlange O.D, D.O.S, age 84, of Palos Heights, Illinois, passed away on March 10, 2024. He was born on October 18, 1939, in Auburn, Nebraska. 

Darrell was a dedicated Associate Professor of Optometry at Illinois College of Optometry and also had a successful private practice in the Palos Heights area.  He was known for his multiple research presentations both in the USA and internationally, as well as his publications. 

He was a proud graduate having excelled at Wartburg College and Illinois College of Optometry, where he graduated as valedictorian. Darrell furthered his education at the University of Chicago. 

Darrell worshipped at the Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd and found solace in his faith.  He had a wide range of hobbies, including birdwatching, photography, travel, spending time with his family, playing games, enjoying classical music, actively participating in church activities, and engaging in philanthropic endeavors.

He will be deeply missed by his beloved wife Ruth; children Stephen (Deborah), Anne (Kris), Jonathan, grandchildren Savanna, Jack, Dylan, Shannen, Conor, and Victoria; great-granddaughter Maisie; siblings Joanne, Alene, Mark, as well as many other family members and friends.  Darrell is predeceased by his father Alvin, mother Augusta, sisters Gloria and Mary, and granddaughter Brittany.

Darrell will be remembered for his kindness, love, humor, caring nature, generosity, hard work, honesty, ethics, and Christian values. His legacy of dedication to his profession, commitment to his family, and service to his community will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Visitation Sunday, March 17th from 3:00 pm until 8:00 pm at the KERRY FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION CARE CENTER, 7020 West 127th Street, Palos Heights.
 
Family and friends will gather Monday, March 18th for a service, 1:00 pm at the Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 7800 West McCarthy Road, Palos Heights.
 
Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Dr. Darrell Schlange, O.D. Scholarship at the Illinois College of Optometry at www.ico.edu/make-a-gift

Hyperlink  https://www.ico.edu/make-a-gift