Darlene M. Goto

Darlene Marie Goto (nee Kamysz), 80, of Roselle, Illinois passed away peacefully on September 11, 2026. Surrounded by her loving family.

 Born June 13, 1946, to the late Adam and Kathleen “Kate” (nee Murphy) Kamysz. 

Beloved wife of Larry “Tam” Goto for over 62 years. Their love story began when they met at Lake Park High School in Roselle in 1960 when Dar was a freshman and Tam was a senior. They married in 1964 and had two beautiful children, Larry and Bridget. Tam was the love of her life as she was his. They remained each other’s rock and best friend through every season of life – challenges, celebrations, and everything in between – a true testament to their enduring love and faithful devotion. With grace they grew through life together. Hand in hand. They built a life marked by unwavering love, countless blessings and the strength to face every challenge together. As a mother and grandmother Darlene gave her children and grandchildren everything she could. Darlene was a strong woman who worked hard to set an example for all of them. She sacrificed often and loved without limits. Darlene celebrated the victories and carried them through the difficult moments, teaching them the values of kindness, honesty, faith, and perseverance. Darlene made each and every one of them feel seen, valued and deeply loved. 

The Goto family made their permanent home in Roselle in 1976 and became active in their community and at St. Walter Catholic Church where Darlene and Larry taught religious education for 35 years, became Ministers of Care – visiting homebound parishioners and bringing them church, community, joy, and love. Both Darlene and Larry are proud graduates of the “New Wine” program in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Joliet, an intensive, multi-year, Lay Ministry program designed to equip lay volunteers with theological knowledge and collaborative leadership skills. As a dedicated and faith-filled couple, they each made their Cursillo by completing a foundational, spiritual renewal weekend focused on Catholic faith, leadership and Christian community. Recently both Darlene and Larry were recognized as Joyful Disciples at St. Walters for their dedication. Darlene’s beautiful smile and warm, welcoming, demeanor will be missed by her fellow parishioners – especially on Sunday mornings where both Darlene and Larry were greeters, she will be forever remembered for her mantra “God is good all the time; all the time God is good”! 

Loving mother of Larry (Kim) Goto and Bridget (Bill) Soo. Cherished grandmother to Hannah (Peter) Kotsiris, Alex Goto and Elizabeth “Lizzy” Goto. Devoted sister of Sharon (Larry) Ford, Melody (Jeff) Craven and the late Ronald (Shirleen) Kamysz. Dear sister-in-law of Carol (the late Bob) Higdon, Alan (Patty) Goto, and the late Christine McArthur. Adored aunt of many. 

She was a devoted, loving and dependable friend to countless people, who will greatly miss her contagious smile, compassion and humor. Darlene brought sunshine and joy into every room she entered. 

Darlene was truly an eternal optimist. She endured so many challenges in her lifetime and conquered them with immense faith, strength, and grace. She has always been an inspiration to her family and friends. Darlene was an example to everyone who knew her on how to live with adversity through her faith, smile, and positive attitude. A lover of games, music, and cooking. Darlene brought energy, laughter and happiness everywhere she went. To know Darlene was to love her. She had a heart that welcomed everyone – nothing brought her more joy than being surrounded by her loved ones. Darlene had a special way of making every person around her feel important and loved. Her laughter was contagious, her kindness genuine, and her love unconditional.