Darrell R. Hines

July 5, 1961 – February 10, 2026
Darrell R. Hines, 64, of St. Germain, Wisconsin (formerly of Iola, Wisconsin), passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones, on Feb. 10, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and a life lived at full throttle. Though he fought a courageous battle with Parkinson’s and dementia, Darrell’s quick wit and adventurous heart remained his hallmarks until the end.
Born on July 5, 1961, in Wild Rose, Wisconsin, to Marlin and Kathryn Hines, Darrell was a man who truly knew how to live. Known for his sharp sense of humor and tireless entrepreneurial spirit, he filled every room with vibrant energy and a love for music and the great outdoors.
Darrell’s restless spirit took him across the country, living in Colorado, California, Texas, and Missouri. It was in Missouri where he met Mary in 1989. They married in 1991, beginning a 34-year journey of love and business partnership. Together, they crafted a life and a business legacy, starting with building the Chain O’ Lakes Convenience Store from the ground up in 1993, followed by the Churchill Street Station, Weyauwega BP, and several Subway locations.
Beyond his professional success, Darrell’s greatest joy was his family. He was the father to five children and was the ultimate ‘fun’ grandpa, never happier than when he was spoiling his four grandchildren with water tubing and skiing, hosting bonfires, singing and dancing, or lighting up the sky with fireworks on the 4th of July.
Darrell is survived by his devoted wife, Mary; children, Kyle, Seth, Tannah (Sam), Micheal, and Chris; grandchildren, Natalie, Ben, Winnie, and Dean; and siblings, Doug (Linda), Jeanie (Lynn), Dale (Sheri), Jaci (Glenn), Jill (Tom), and Donny; along with many cherished nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Iola, on Saturday, Feb. 21. Times will be posted at a later date.
