Dennis Darling, 68 years old, was born on October 18, 1952 in the small farming town of Baldur, Manitoba. It is with profound sadness that we announce his passing on October 30, 2020 after a long and hard-fought battle against cancer. He passed away surrounded by the warmth of his family in the comfort of his bed, even as a Yukon storm wept frozen tears outside his bay window. Dennis would have appreciated the beauty and peace in those final moments.
Dennis Darling was an extremely unique and special man. He balanced a sense of stoicism and realism with an incredible propensity for empathy and caring. He was a loyal friend, a trusted mentor, and an amazing educator. Everyone that he met came away with the sense that Dennis truly cared about them, because he truly did. He spent his entire life looking out for, and after, others. As a teacher and principal, he would take the time to listen to both teachers and students alike, and was nominated as a Principal of the Year in 2012 shortly before his retirement from teaching - after 40 years of educating students in Manitoba, British Colombia, Saskatchewan and the Yukon.
Dennis Darling was a passionate educator, an avid cross-country skier, and a (fairly) successful hunter. He loved walking with his canine partner Max up to Caribou Lake and along the crocus bluffs where Max's ashes were spread. He was an adept canoer and biker, and participated in the Ride to Conquer Cancer three times after being diagnosed with cancer. He loved hiking, and being outdoors with family. He loved to hike the Chilkoot pass, and took every opportunity to travel with friends and family. He was passionate about sharing experiences with those that he loved, and was an incredible chef. His Sunday morning waffle breakfasts will always be a cherished memory for those who had the fortune to share in those experiences.
Dennis Darling was the most loving Son, Brother, Husband, Father, Uncle, Grandfather, Friend, and Mentor that any person could ever have asked for. He was always there for his family, no matter what. Always. He demonstrated his love through words, actions, and the most thoughtful and amazing Christmas gifts you could ever imagine. His joyous nature and laughter were infectious. He leaves behind his mother Gladys, his wife Rhonda, his children, Timothy (Denise McDiarmid) Darling; Kevin Darling (Brittany Sinclair); and Amy Darling (Chris Quilley); his sister Elizabeth Manning and her children Megan (Melissa), and Arel; his sister Sandra (Bernie Davidowich) and their children Eric, Trevor, and Ryan; his brother Brian (Kathy) Darling and their children Ashley (Jake Sangster), and Kristy. He leaves behind three amazing grandchildren, Theron, Quinn, and Hannah, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
It is difficult to convey in words how amazing Dennis was, or how much he will be missed. His passing has left an immeasurable hole in a loving world which he helped create. One person's experience alone cannot convey the gifts he bestowed upon all of us with his presence. At Dennis' request, there will not be a formal service. However, we are extending the opportunity to all of you to share your memories and experiences with Dennis in this loving memorial - a tribute to a truly great man.
In lieu of flowers, people can make donations to the BC Cancer Society
(http://www.bccancer.bc.ca/donate) or by participating in, or donating to someone participating in the Ride to Conquer Cancer 2021.
We can all strive to live by the example that was set by you Dennis, and that is the best gift we can possibly give you now.
Fondly remembered, and always in our hearts.