Darlene Helen Ennis

Darlene Helen Ennis          

Beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, Darlene Helen Ennis of Boise, ID passed away peacefully on Sept. 6, 2019 at the age of 78 at The Terraces of Boise where she lived for the past 3 years. Born in Palo Alto, CA on July 5, 1941 to Chris and Helen Roman of Los Altos, CA, Darlene graduated Menlo Atherton High School Class of 1959. She then attended O’Connor School of Nursing and Santa Clara University where she met Robert “Bob” Ennis. After graduating in 1962 she accepted a job near her childhood home at El Camino Hospital, working her way up to head surgical nurse. Darlene married Bob on Sept. 4, 1965 and 2 years later moved to Bob’s hometown of Boise, Idaho, settling in the North End for the next 40 years where they raised three children: Christopher, Matthew, and Tiffany. Darlene loved being a wife and mother and was her children’s number one fan. She supported their dreams, loved unconditionally, and was a never-ending sounding board for advice. She formed lasting friendships in their tightknit neighborhood near Elm Grove Park and regularly attended mass at St. John’s Catholic Church with her family. She was active in Junior League and volunteered at St. Mary’s School before returning to nursing in 1980. Many fond memories were made at the family cabin in McCall and during frequent visits to see her family in Northern California. A voracious reader, Darlene always had a book in her hand and numerous magazines in the house. She was a talented artist and gifted seamstress who early on made her own clothes and later beautiful quilts, usually as gifts for new parents. She loved decorating her home for every holiday but Christmas was her favorite. She collected so many ornaments that you could barely see the tree underneath. One of her greatest joys was sending birthday and holiday cards to every loved one on her list. After Bob’s passing in 2005, Darlene relocated to Southeast Boise where she enjoyed daily walks through the neighborhood and hosting happy hours for family and friends. She met regularly with her quilting group as well as The Red Hats. She attended Our Lady of the Rosary Church and Pilates classes. Darlene thoroughly adored her grandchildren and had their favorite candy on hand at all times. She was generous with her time and played along side them, never tiring of entertaining. Darlene loved Mickey Mouse and her long-time dream to take her family to Disney World was finally realized in February 2006. She traveled on as many trips as her health would allow. A few favorite experiences were swimming with manatees and dolphins in Mexico, cave tubing in Belize, and touring China with her quilting group. She was always up for an adventure. The family would like to thank The Terraces 2nd Floor South Lodge nursing staff and driver Jerry and the entire staff at DaVita Table Rock Dialysis for their years of support, compassion, and unwavering care. Darlene is survived by her children: Christopher (Suzanne) Ennis, Matthew (Lisa) Ennis, both of Boise, ID, and Tiffany (Peter) Andrade, of Danville, CA. She was blessed with 7 grandchildren: Ethan, Colby, Abby, Owen, Gavin, Ryan, and Amelia. She is also survived by her brother, Chris (Patricia) Roman, of San Francisco, CA. A funeral mass will be held on Sept. 21 at 10am at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church in Boise. Burial and reception to follow. In lieu of flowers the family suggests feeding the birds, taking a walk, sending a handwritten note to a loved one, or donating to your favorite charity in honor of Darlene.