Darla Jo Burnham

MISSOULA ~ Darla Jo Burnham, 67, passed away at her home in Missoula, MT on March 29, 2025.

Darla was born on October 22, 1957 to Joe and Marian Burnham. She grew up in Missoula and Frenchtown areas and she went to school in both areas. Loved to learn, got excellent grades, and was a cheerleader in Frenchtown until she moved back to Missoula in her 8th grade year. There she developed friendships that lasted 53 years with Tanna Rogers and Cindy Steele. Hellgate High School is where she met her future husband, Glen Henry Wilson II. Together, they had 3 children- Glen, Katrina, and Paul.

It is when you talk to her family or friends you will hear that Darla was known for her witty personality, big heart, compassion for others, and joy of having fun. Darla loved to travel, go to the lake, camping, dancing, campfires, music (The Commodores as her kids would say), tailgate parties for Griz games, and having a drink with her many friends from the Eagles Lodge, which she was a member.

Darla had numerous jobs over the years, including bartending at the Rusty Nail, The Eagles, waitressing at China Gardens before completing her cosmetology education at the Modern Beauty School and embarking on a long career as a hairdresser. In her most recent years, she kept herself busy cleaning private homes and commercial residences. She worked hard and played hard!

When Darla’s kids were young, she loved watching them compete in sports – wrestling, baseball, football, volleyball – she made sure they didn’t miss any games or matches! Her love of watching her kids compete carried over to her grandkids. She could often be seen in her chair at many a football, baseball or softball game. Her greatest legacy is her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Darla is survived by her children, Glen Wilson III, Katrina Sween, and Paul Wilson (Tracy). Her grandchildren Kaaden Wilson, Albert Sween, Justin Sween, Macy Sween, Wilson Sween, Henry Wilson, Simon Wilson, Everett Wilson, and Astrid Wilson. And her Great grandchild Ezra McGowan. Sisters Diane Johnson, Dawn Charvat, Tammy Burnham, and Brandi Burnham. Brothers Dean Burnham, Daren Charvat, Donny Burnham, Brian Burnham, and David Burnham.

Darla was preceded in death by Marian Charvat (mother), Joe Burnham (father), Charlie Charvat (step-father), John Charvat (brother) and Boyd Charvat (brother).

Her funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 5, 2025 at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. Visitation will be one hour prior. Burial will in Sunset Memorial Gardens in Missoula.