Obituaries

Mikell Craig Darling

July 14, 1941 – October 3, 2026

Mikell Craig “Mike” Darling, 85, of St. Charles, Illinois, died at home on October 3, 2026. He was born in Chicago and grew up in Evanston.

Mike graduated from Northwestern Military and Naval Academy in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. His love of military history began there in his senior year, when he researched and exhibited the school’s collection of antique weapons. He went on to serve four years in the U.S. Army and later graduated from DePaul University.

After the Army, Mike began collecting historical military headgear as a hobby. Over time the hobby grew to include uniforms and insignia, and it became a significant and unique collection.

Mike served as director of the Evanston Historical Society (now Evanston History Center) for 20 years before retiring in 1989. He was especially proud to oversee the restoration of the Charles G. Dawes House and its designation as a National Historic Landmark.

After moving to St. Charles in 1989, Mike began collecting military vehicles. Among them was a World War II scout car, which he restored to authentic condition and donated to the National World War II Museum in New Orleans.

In retirement Mike worked for several years at United Airlines and enjoyed traveling with his fellow employees. He loved to travel and went on several sailing cruises. Closer to home, he was a spirited “old curmudgeon” at the early-morning coffee group at Arcedium Coffeehouse and enjoyed playing pétanque at Dunham Woods Riding Club.

Those who will cherish his memory include Sharon S. Darling, his beloved companion of 54 years; his brother, Paul J. Darling II, of Bonita Springs, Florida; his niece, Karen Darling; his nephew, Mikell S. Darling; and his sister-in-law, Kathleen Darling, of St. Charles. He was preceded in death by his brother, Richard S. Darling, and his parents, Myrtle and Paul J. Darling.

Memorial contributions may be made to Garfield Farm Museum in Campton Hills, IL, or the St. Charles History Museum in St. Charles, IL. For further information please call Yurs Funeral Home St. Charles 630-584-0060 or www.yursfuneralhomes.com

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