Darlene Rosa York

March 7, 1958 – September 18, 2016

Dr. Darlene Rosa York passed away on September 18, 2016 of pancreatic cancer. More important than the way she died is the way she lived. Born in Sacramento, California on March 7, 1958, Darlene grew up amid the sunshine and berry farms of Santa Cruz, Ca.—a dedicated student, talented athlete, fun friend, and loving daughter of “Corky” and Gerlene York.

Darlene felt incredibly fortunate in her education with an undergraduate degree in Sports Medicine from Pepperdine University, a Masters in Education from Santa Clara University, and a PhD in Education from USC (fight on Trojans!). As a teacher, she was legendary for her energy and creativity. She taught middle school mathematics in San Jose School District and upon receiving her doctorate taught math education at Chico State University. In 2015, she retired from a successful career as a professor at Antioch University Seattle. Through her work as a classroom teacher and professor of education, she touched the lives of hundreds of students who will carry her wisdom and love of teaching in their hearts and minds forever.

Darlene loved music, art, and reading. She was a talented yogini, and she loved sports that took her into the great outdoors. A fearless mountaineer, she conquered the walls and summits of Smith Rock, Mountain Shasta, and Mount Baker from her home on Bainbridge Island. She was always with her faithful yellow lab, Sonny, as her companion.

Darlene will be remembered for her incredible appetite for life.

She loved great coffee, a cold beer, a well-made margarita, intelligent conversation, and a good joke. Her signature belly laugh, gift of gab, and generous nature will live in the hearts of all who loved her.

Darlene is survived by her beloved partner Ed Bullock of Issaquah, his family, her nephews Chester and Chris Clever, and their families. She leaves behind many friends and colleagues who loved her spirit, humor and zest for life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to the Education Scholarship Program at Islandwood on Bainbridge Island: https://islandwood.org/donate-in-memory-of-darlene-york

A private Celebration of Darlene’s life will be held in November at Islandwood, contact edbullock3@comcast.net for details.