Darla Jean Sward

Darla J. Sward, 60, of Boone, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly at her home on Monday, April 11, 2022.

A Celebration of Life gathering will be held, Saturday, April 16, 2022, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m., at Carson ~ Stapp Funeral Home in Ogden. Graveside services will follow at Paton Township Cemetery, Paton, Iowa. Military Graveside Rites will be conducted by the Iowa National Guard Funeral Honors. For online obituaries and condolences, please visit: www.carsonstappfuneralhome.com

Darla Jean Riddle was born on July 3, 1961, the daughter of Darwin and Donna (Ferguson) Riddle. She graduated with the Boxholm High School class of 1980.

Following her education, Darla joined the Iowa Army National Guard. She retired as a Sgt. First Class after serving her country for 34 years, as a 92 Alpha – Automated Logistical Specialist. She also served 3 tours of duty including Operation Enduring Freedom where she was stationed at Bagram Air Force Base in Afghanistan.

Darla was honored to have shared her military experience with many of her family members. Her father Darwin Riddle retired as an E7 from the Army NG . Her brother Dan retired as a 1LT from the Army NG who enlisted Darla into the IANG on 26 June 1982. Her son-in-law, Gabe Lanz, whom was honorably discharged from the Army NG as a SGT. And her father-in-law, Richard Sward retired as a Tech SGT from the Marine Corps. As well as her 2 nephews, SSGT Isaac Riddle, Air Force and PFC Elijah Riddle, Army.

Darla was preceded in death by her father, Darwin Riddle, and her father and mother-in-law, Dick and JoAnn Sward.

Survivors include her husband of 19 years, Scott Sward of Boone, IA; daughter, Tasha (Gabe) Lanz; three grandchildren, Dane, Mable, and Royce Lanz; her mother, Donna Riddle of all Waukee, IA; one brother, Dan (Melodee) Riddle of Grand Maris, MN; two brothers-in-law, Dana (Co) Sward of Waukee, IA, and Alan (Jodi) Sward of Ogden, IA; and several nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be left to the discretion of the family.