Darrin Padgett, 63, of Ogallala, passed away Tuesday, February 6, 2024, at the Ogallala Community Hospital.
Born on August 14, 1960, in Julesburg, Colorado, to Wilton and Vauni C. Padgett, Darrin was a proud graduate of Julesburg High School, class of 1978. He found his lifelong love in Tammy Jo Frickey. They wed on June 27, 1981, and together, they shared over 42 years of marriage. It was a journey of many adventures, trials, and triumphs. Their love of Jesus got them through it all.
Darrin dedicated 45 years of service to Tallgrass Energy Natural Gas Pipeline, where his hard work and industriousness were appreciated. He loved his job and did it well.
Darrin was incredibly handy, and could seemingly fix anything. He enjoyed home remodel projects and had a knack and joy for working on cars. He also had a love for cooking, reading, Legos, and learning. He was a shameless Trekkie. He liked watching football and was a faithful Broncos fan. Darrin was a collector of tools and gadgets. You could often find him shopping the clearance isles for the next great bargain. He enjoyed lake time and camping. He and Tam often found themselves ministering to many strangers in conversations, sharing the love of Christ, giving boat and jet ski rides.
Darrin was cherished for his cheerful spirit, always ready with a joke or a tease, yet his heart was ever inclined towards his faith and family. His enduring love and patience with his sons was unmatched. His grandchildren brought much joy and laughter to his life. He also loved all his pets, they were a joy and comfort to him.
He was a follower of Christ, blessed with a remarkable testimony of faith, a servant's heart, and a gift of mercy. His spiritual gifts shined through his mission trips to Poland, church youth group, organizing the church's men's breakfast, and serving in the Celebrate Recovery, a Christ-centered recovery program for many years.
Despite health challenges, Darrin's faith only strengthened, making him a mentor and spiritual father to many. His ability to model God's unconditional love and his eagerness to share his faith were hallmarks of his character. Even in the face of illness, Darrin encouraged others, touching many lives through his journey. His legacy is one of love, faith, and perseverance. Darrin has left an indelible mark on the hearts of those he encountered.
Darrin was preceded in death by his parents, Willie and Vauni; a brother, Frederick; and father-in-law, Ronnie Frickey.
Survivors include his wife, Tammy of Ogallala; one son, Nathan Padgett; two spiritual sons, Dustin Owens and Bradley Coyne; foster sons, Ricky Beck, Timmy Copper, and Clarence Alspaugh; grandchildren, Korbyn Herrick, Braeylee Herrick, Nathan Padgett, and Bentley Luebbe; sister, Lynette Fowler; step-mother, Margaret Padgett; step-brothers, James J. (Maryann) Parker IV, and William Eric (Colleen) Parker; mother-in-law, Sharon Frickey; brother-in-law, John (Katie) Frickey; sister-in-law, Candace (Ben) Troxel; along with many nieces, nephews, great-neices and nephews, cousins, and friends.
Memorials are suggested to the New Hope Building Fund in Darrin's memory where he was a member. Condolences may be shared at prairiehillsfuneralhome.com, where the services will be streamed live.
Celebration of Life will be on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at 10:30 am at New Hope Church with Pastor Matt Waitley officiating. Inurnment will be in the Ogallala Cemetery.
Memorial book signing with family receiving friends will be on Friday, from 4 pm until 6 pm at the Prairie Hills Funeral Home in Ogallala.
Prairie Hills Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.