AUSTINTOWN – Darlene Sturm Fitzgerald, 61, passed away early Friday afternoon, Jan. 15, 2016, at St. Elizabeth Health Center in Youngstown following a courageous battle with leukemia.

Darlene, who was affectionately known as "Mike" to her twin sister's "Pat," was born Feb. 27, 1954, in Youngstown, a daughter of the late Joseph and Loretta Scullen Sturm. She was a graduate of Immaculate Heart of Mary Elementary School in Austintown, and was a 1973 graduate of Austintown Fitch High School.

Darlene worked several jobs throughout her life, but always considered herself a full-time mom and grandma. Darlene will be remembered by her family as the most amazing, loving, caring woman and mother, ever.

She was a member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Austintown, and she enjoyed fishing, shopping, and caring for her beloved dog, Peppie.

Darlene and her five-year old grandson, Landen, were both diagnosed with leukemia in the Spring of 2015. Both fought courageously together to overcome the illness, with Landen continuing his fight now with "Grandma D" in Heaven to help him.

Darlene leaves two daughters, Tracy Lynn Fitzgerald and Lisa M. Fitzgerald-Green (husband Walter), both of Youngstown; a son, James Fitzgerald Jr. of Youngstown; nine grandchildren, Jevon, De'Azia, Champagne, Taneja, Paris, Sylas, Jaylon, Landen, and Aiden; two sisters, her twin, Arlene "Pat" Sturm Zvara of Austintown and Margaret Revis of Boardman; her nephew and godson, Kevin (Sommer) Zvara of Austintown; three close friends, Linda, Phyllis, and Sue; and many extended family members.

Her husband, James Fitzgerald Sr., passed away March 9, 2011. Two brothers, Joseph Scullen and Ronald Sturm, also preceded her in death.

Family and friends may call from 5 to 7 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 21, at Kinnick Funeral Home, 477 N. Meridian Rd., Youngstown, where a funeral service will take place at 6:30 p.m.

A memorial dinner celebration will be held after the service on Thursday at 40 South Glenellen Ave, Youngstown, Ohio 44509.