Darrell Wade Rowat

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Darrell Wade Rowat who died peacefully with his family by his side on October 3, 2025, in Airdrie, Alberta at the age of 64 years.

Darrell was born in Olds, Alberta on March 7, 1961. His family later moved to Kimberley, BC, where he spent his youth and early adult years. Although born in Alberta, he always called himself a ‘BC Boy’. He loved exploring the woods and fishing at Cherry Creek in Meadowbrook with his siblings and friends.

Darrell worked at Cominco after high school in 1979. In 1982, he married the love of his life, Aida (Ida) Daprocida, and together they raised their two daughters, Amanda and Amy. In 1987, Darrell and his family moved to Crossfield, Alberta where he worked as a Power Engineer at Plasti-Fab Ltd. in Crossfield for 25 years. In 2012, he made a change and went to work for Southern Pacific Resources in Fort McMurray, Alberta.

Darrell grew up skiing, playing hockey and baseball. He had a lifelong passion for hockey, and a highlight of his career came when he joined the Kimberley Knights and in 1980 was part of the team that won the Cyclone Taylor Cup, BC Junior B Hockey Championship. He played recreational hockey up until his early forties.

Those who knew Darrell will fondly remember his love for baseball and slo-pitch. He was known as a powerful hitter, often sending balls soaring over the fence for home runs. Darrell also coached his daughters’ baseball teams, and today they both continue to play and coach. His grandchildren have begun to play as well.

Darrell loved to golf and spent countless hours on the golf course. He enjoyed camping with family and friends, spending weekends fishing, playing horseshoes, going to the beach, and riding his quad. Darrell was a good card player and his game of choice was cribbage. He never turned down a friendly match and played with family and friends right up until his passing. He was an avid bowler and played on a mixed bowling league for many years. He went on several salmon fishing excursions including his last one to the island of Haida Gwaii and was fortunate to have travelled to Europe, Australia, Mexico, Cayman Islands, and the US.

Darrell was a dedicated, hardworking man who always put his family first. A true handyman he could fix just about anything. His daughters, family and friends often called on him to help with projects, and he was always happy to lend a hand. His garage was his domain, and his wife often joked that it was like a mini hardware store. He loved tinkering on his classic cars including his 1969 Oldsmobile, which he proudly drove around town.

Sadly in 2014 Darrell was diagnosed with a meningioma brain tumour which changed the rest of his life. In 2015, during surgery to remove the tumour, he suffered a stroke which left him with many deficits causing hardships and suffering. Despite his struggles, he continued on with dignity and grace, never complaining, remaining grateful for the care and support he received. His strength and resilience inspired all who knew him.

Darrell is survived by his beloved wife of 43 years, Ida; his daughters, Amanda (Sam) and Amy (Lawrence); his three beautiful grandchildren, Jacqueline, Lilla and Lawrence Jr., who were the joy of his life; his mother, Jackie; and his siblings, Debbie, Michael, and Stuart. He is also survived by his in-laws, many nieces, and nephews, as well as a large extended family. He was predeceased by his father, Bob, and his grandparents.

The family would like to thank his family doctor, Dr. John McSorley for all his care and advice, as well as the extensive medical and therapy personnel who supported Darrell over the past 10 years.

A Celebration of Life to honour Darrell will be held at the Town and Country Centre in Airdrie, Alberta on Sunday, November 2, 2025 at 1:00 PM. If so desired, donations can be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation, www.heartandstroke.ca/ or a food bank of your choice.

Darrell’s quiet strength, his love for his family, and his gratitude for life will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Darrell—you will be deeply missed and forever remembered.