Darrell W. Birge, 75, of Linden passed away peacefully on July 30, 2026.
He was born on Aug. 10, 1950, in Crawfordsville, to Mervin and Mary Clifford (Walker) Birge.
Darrell is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Sandra “Sandy” (Cunningham) Birge; his children, Jennifer Birge, Chad (Tiffany) Birge and Rebecca (Kelly) Scott; and his beloved grandchildren, Christopher Scott, Ellesyn Birge and CJ Birge. He is also survived by his cherished cousins, Bonita (Jason) Poore and Shirley (Nick) Tooley, along with many beloved in-laws, cousins, nieces, nephews, and countless friends who became family through the years.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Wallace Birge and David Birge; his extended family, Jessie McIntyre, Mamie McIntyre, Ewell Birge, Howard Birge, Horace Birge and Ed and Betty Edwards.
In 1972, Darrell began what would become his life’s work with Birge Farm Drainage, building not only a successful business but a reputation for integrity, hard work, and excellence. He also farmed through the late 1990s, and his love for agriculture and excavation never faded. He spent many years involved with and leading LICA as he took immense pride in improving the land and believed in sharing knowledge, building relationships, and strengthening the future of the drainage and excavation industries.
Darrell was truly one of a kind. He understood the importance of standing firmly on principle and never left anyone wondering where he stood. Yet behind his strong convictions was a heart that was far bigger than it often appeared. He was fiercely loyal, deeply generous, and always willing to help those in need. Once you earned Darrell’s trust, you became family.
He loved his wife, children and grandchildren with all his heart and treasured every moment spent with them. An avid reader with remarkable penmanship, Darrell appreciated craftsmanship, history, and the value of doing things the right way. His wisdom, humor, work ethic, and unwavering character will be remembered by everyone whose lives he touched.
“The trail is the thing, not the end of the trail. Travel too fast, and you miss all you are traveling for”. Louis L’Amour
Though he will be profoundly missed, the legacy he leaves behind lives on through his family, his work, the countless people he mentored, and the community he loved so dearly. They truly don’t make them like Darrell anymore.
Visitation will be from 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 6 at Hahn-Groeber Funeral Home, Linden. Services will begin at 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 7. Burial will follow at Linden Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Children’s Hospital in Darrell’s honor. If you would like to drive your muscle car, Corvette, or other classic car in the funeral procession, we invite you to do so in Darrell’s honor. It would be a meaningful tribute to his love of cars and a special way to celebrate his life. Hahn-Groeber Funeral Home is honored to care for the Birge family.
Please leave memories and condolences at hahngroeberfuneralhome.com.
