Darryl Meyer

R. Darryl Meyer passed away peacefully on September 3, 2025, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota, following a short illness. He was 85.

Born in Nebraska to Rev. Raymond and Lenora Meyer, Darryl moved to Minnesota and Wisconsin, and then back to Nebraska, following his father's pastoral calling. He graduated from Benson High School in Omaha and went on to attend Wartburg College, where he was a proud Wartburg Knight. His upbringing helped shape the values of service, leadership, and faith that guided him throughout his life.

Darryl retired as Director of Human Services for Freeborn County, where he led with integrity and compassion. He helped shape regional partnerships like the South Country Health Alliance and supported the development of mental health and crisis response services. While serving as the Director in Todd County, Darryl helped bring Camphill Village to Minnesota and has continued to serve on their board in the decades since. His leadership has been marked by collaboration and a focus on practical solutions that improved lives.

After retiring in 2006, Darryl remained deeply involved in the Albert Lea community. He volunteered with Meals on the Go, the Ecumenical Food Pantry, and the Albert Lea Daybreakers Kiwanis Club. He helped distribute books to preschoolers, supported literacy programs, and contributed to fundraising efforts for youth initiatives. He enjoyed reading to younger elementary students through Readers Theater often acting out characters in the book. Darryl served on the board of St. John’s Lutheran Community and was active in Youth for Christ, where he helped with remodeling projects and endowment planning.

Faith was central to Darryl’s life. He was a longtime member of Trinity Lutheran Church, where he served as a Scripture reader, communion assistant, and lay speaker. He supported outreach efforts both locally and abroad. His contributions were steady and sincere—never for recognition, always out of conviction.

In 2023, Darryl was named Albert Lea’s Citizen of the Year, a reflection of the impact he had over decades of service. Those who knew him describe a man who showed up, followed through, and led by example.

Darryl was an avid fisherman and loved fishing up North on Rainy Lake. He enjoyed his Tuesday and Saturday morning breakfasts with dear friends.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Jo; his daughter, Rachel; his son, Daniel and granddaughter, Taylor. He is also survived by his brother, Paul Meyer (Virginia); his sister, Joan Olander (Bob); many nieces and nephews; and chosen family, Robert Casperson and his family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Rev. Raymond and Lenora Meyer.

A memorial service will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church, Albert Lea on Friday, September 12 at 11:00 AM. Visitation will be held Thursday, September 11, from 5:00 to 7:00PM at Bayview Freeborn Funeral Home and one hour before the service on Friday at the church. Arrangements by Bayview Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Camphill Village Minnesota, Adult & Teen Challenge Minnesota, or South Central Minnesota Youth for Christ – continuing Darryl’s legacy of service and generosity.