Obituaries

Darrell was one of the best reasons I fought for everything in my life so my sincere condolences to the Robar family.

Sincere condolences from Roel and Catrien Vis

Allison, Nathan, Hilary Faith and Joanne: I was deeply saddened to learn of Darrell's recent passing. I had known Darrell for the better part of 35 years. He was among the first to share his SCI experience with me as newly injured person with SCI. I also had the pleasure to work with Darrell at CP NS for 5 years as well. He was a capable, trusted and compassionate person and colleague who always had the best interest of his clients and others in mind. He was a mentor and inspiration to many. Please accept my sincere condolences.

I was saddened to hear of Darrell's passing and want to pass on my condolences to his family, friends and the many people he touched working at the Canadian Paraplegic Association. I, first, met Darrell at the Victoria General Hospital in 1995 when my son, Cal, had a diving accident leaving him quadriplegic. His hard work and dedication in helping others is the legacy he leaves behind. My son, Cal, passed away on March 31 and, this morning as I sit here, I am reflecting on two people who did so much to bring awareness in advocating for the disabled communities in the province of Nova Scotia. You will not be forgotten. Sending love and prayers. Eileen, Callum MacQuarrie's mom

To Allison, Nathan and Hilary, You were the world to your dad. He loved talking about your antics, hobbies, and fun times together. He and I met 10 years ago and shared the love of nature and animals. I volunteer at Hope for Wildlife and half threatened to sneak a bunny or a hawk into the hospital to shock the staff and make him smile. His sense of humor is in each of you and I believe he is walking beside you now. Making sure you don't feel alone and that you can talk to him when you need. I hope your memories make you smile. I will miss your dad but am glad I knew him. Wishing you and your grandparents peace at this time.

Sandy, Doug, Gladys and family, we are sorry to hear of Darrell's passing. What a special person he was and the special memories will be with you forever!

Getting to go to the Lawrencetown Exhibition and the Robar's pool; as well as all of Darrell's favourite West Paradise spots, was the highlight of my childhood summers. My grand parents thought so much of all of you, and I am so sorry for your loss.

Sincere condolences to Doug,Gladys,Sandy and all family members at this difficult time.Thoughts and prayers.Bill and Holly.

Darrell and I were coworkers since I started my social work placement a CPA, he helped me become a social worker. Together, Darrell and I could be found in the office with the heat on and two portable heaters going; usually talking about cats, a topic he and I could go on about forever. Some of the best memories I have of our time in the office together are Darrell talking about his love of Mission Mart, his love of sweets (which my mom found out about and would always bake a little extra for Darrell), and how he always claimed CPA needed an office dog. Darrell had a genuine interest in working with and helping people and I think most of all we'll remember him for his kindness. To Darrell's wonderful family, you'll be in my thoughts.

My deepest sympathy goes out to the family of this extraordinary man I know you are very proud of your son brother nephew may he rest in peace

It is with sadness that I hear of Darrell's passing. But I am full of wonderful memories of such an amazing man. I knew Darrell from CPA and also his work on neurosurgery where he gave hope and knowledge to staff and patients.

So many great memories with Darrell over the years, as friend and co-worker at Rehab. Insisting Space Mountain was our first ride at Disney, [an experience he never forgot!], parties at Doug's, his unwavering pride in his kids, our mutual love of cats...I am sure he and Robert are having unlimited "Sociables!" together. In my heart and memory forever. Judy Cook

much love and heartfelt sympathy to Gladys, Barry, Sandra, Doug, his beautiful children and Joanne. What I read and hear is that he was always helping and caring for someone and never stopped even in the end. What a warrior!!

Dear family of Darrell, we are so sorry for you loss but so proud of his selfless act of giving 3 other families hope. Hang onto all those wonderful memories of better times. With our thoughts and prayer and deepest sympathy, Heather (Grant), Abby, and Eric.

Darrel and I lived in the same apt building many years ago we became great friends n continued to be friends today even after I left the city and Mourvèdre out to the country where I was brought up Darrell was an awesome guy And helped me up with things during his work at CPA Canadian Paraplegic Association He will be missed RIP Bud 🙁

I was one of Darrell's nurses at the VG when he broke his neck.He was a delight to look after and am very pleased that he did so well.

It is with sad hearts that Peter and I wish to send our most deepest sympathies to Darrell's family. Darrell was certainly an amazing person. He helped me to realize that anything can be achieved through perseverance and dedication to your goal. Darrell had such a fantastic sense of humor. Years ago we had many moments of good laughs by Doug's pool and wood stove. And he was always our "music man" at get togethers in our home, he just knew what songs to play that everyone enjoyed! It will never be difficult to forget someone who gave so much to remember. You are all in our thoughts. Sincerely, Susan Hardy Francis

Sorry to hear. Sincere sympathy to Doug, Gladys, Sandy and all Darrell's family from the Gillis family.

So very sorry to hear of your loss, our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this time. I'm sure he will leave a large hole in your lives. Bill and Jeanie Robar

My heart is heavy and my mind has a sense of emptiness in receiving the information that Darrell has passed. He was instrumental in my progress to move forward and live a life of independency. He was a compassionate, inspiring and a life enabler. His humor could lift my heart on occasions when life was seemingly dark. Memories of his dedication and determination to move forward on my behalf will never be forgotten. His tenacity was exceptional and appreciated by all that were fortunate to have known him. He will be missed and always remembered !!!

To Darrell's family and friends, my deepest sympathy on your loss. I was a young nurse on 2A Neuro when Darrell had his accident. This was in the days of no seat belts or helmets. Tha majority of patients were 18 to 25 year old men and I was 21 years old. All of us babies but we developed some true friendships and fun times during the 3+ months they were in traction. Darrell was special then and as I read these memories, he was special to the end. He has often popped into my thoughts over the years as we shared funny stories and future plans in the quiet of the nightshift on 2A. As the daughter of a father who chose MAID in September 2020 and a nurse of 40+ years, know that his decision was brave and thoughtful for those he loved. Hold the memories close as I have. Sincerely Cindy Withrow

To Darrell's family and friends I wish to extend my sincere condolences on Darrell's passing, Darrell was instrumental in helping my late husband and I navigate a system that could have been very difficult had I allowed it when my husband became a paraplegic. Where ever you met him whether it be at his office or at the Rehab he always greeted you with a smile that would light up a room. If he could help you with a problem he never waived from providing support. Members in the Spinal Cord Community has lost a larger than life Ally and advocate. Take your rest Darrell you fought a good fight may you now walk upright with the Angels and hold your head high for a job well done my friend you have truly earned your wings. Harriet Fagan & family

To Darrell's father and my dear friend Doug, Darrell's sister Sandra, mother Gladys, and his three amazing children, Donna and I share your sorrow. His memory will never be forgotten.

Darrell's family and friends, be very proud of all his courage and strength, and Darrell is still helping others. Cherish the memories and know how close all of you are. Sincerely, Jan Sarsfield

To all Family and friends of Darrell, hold dear the memories of one so Special Human Being, as he was exceptional as a mentor to many!! RIP Darrell

To Darrell's Family and Friends. I had the opportunity to meet Darrell many years ago. He played a role in peer support for CPA. Darrell spent hours visiting my brother in the NS Rehab Centre. He was determined to assist Callum envision a life after a spinal cord injury. Callum and Darrell stayed connected over the years and shared experiences while advocating for people with physical disabilities. I am certain that the words I share will not fill the enormous void you must feel. I am very sorry for your loss. Darrell made a difference in my brother's life and the life of others. Please accept our deepest condolences from Callum MacQuarrie's family.

Darrell made the world a much better place for so many...so very sorry for your loss. Treasure your memories. You must be so very proud of all his strength and courage. Rest easy my friend. Marlene McCarthy

My favourite memory of my father was when we would light fireworks off in my grandfathers yard. We probably made some of the neighbours mad but he didn't care.