Darrin G. Stanke

Darrin Stanke, age 59, passed away on April 3, 2026. Darrin was born in Wausau, WI to John Stanke and Marlene Stanke. He was raised in Bevent, WI, and obtained his degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Wisconsin - Platteville. Darrin married Jenny (Tepp) Stanke of Wausau, Wisconsin on November 5, 1994 in Bevent, WI.

Darrin worked in the construction industry, with strong contributions to bridge building in the upper Midwest. He retired from his career in 2022 and was able to pursue his three major passions: cars, camping, and guns.

After being raised with an interest in tinkering and cars, Darrin never stopped working on vehicles. Whether it was maintaining his commuter car or restoring a one-of-a-kind vehicle, cars was one of his lifelong passions. Darrin was well-known in the Mopar community (some even calling him the "Godfather of A12") after fully restoring two 1969 Dodge A12 Superbee's to OEM condition. One of those vehicles was a one-of-a-kind floral top. He won numerous awards at shows with each of his project cars. Both of these vehicles are now on display in museums. Later in his life, he enjoyed the modern day Mopar vehicles, owning a Hellcat and Demon Challenger. His knowledge, expertise, attention to detail, and friendly demeanor built him a strong presence in the Mopar community that will be missed.

In 2005, his wife Jenny convinced him to go on a family camping trip to Glacier National Park. What started as hesitancy to pack up the kids and travel across the country soon turned into the exciting family trips each year. Darrin dove into the world of camping and traveled to various locations with his truck, camper, and eventually with an additional vehicle - usually a Jeep Wrangler. Darrin and his wife, along with the kids when they could join, traveled to 33 National Parks across the nation.

Darrin was an avid sportsman, traveling across the Midwest to hunt pheasant each year and compete in sporting clay competitions. He was actively involved with the Wausau Skeet & Trap Club, including serving as President, Past President, and most recently, Vice President.

Amongst all these passions, Darrin always made time for his biggest priorities: family and friends. He showed up for them day in and day out, offering valuable advice and being a strong shoulder to cry on. Sometimes, it just meant offering up some of his classic "bumper stickers" as he called them.

He was preceded in death by John Stanke (Father). Darrin is survived by his wife, Jenny, and his three children Zach, Andrea, and Grace. Darrin's Celebration of Life will be held on April 11, 2026 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at St. Therese Catholic Church. An engine rev tribute will take place at 9:50 AM. The Requiem Mass begins at 10:00 AM, and lunch will follow in the church basement.

 In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Darrin Stanke Foundation or the Miss Wausau Area Scholarship Organization. Both organizations go back into supporting the central Wisconsin community.