Darlene Sheryl Velestuk

Darlene was born in Armstrong, BC on July 3rd, 1954 to Clarence and Doreen Girbav.

She is survived by her husband of 49 years, Ed Velestuk, children Tiana Van Dyk (Brandon) and Brandon Velestuk (Laurel), granddaughters Keala Van Dyk and Elia Velestuk, mother Doreen Girbav, sisters (and best friends) Brenda Ayres, Cherry Girbav and Carla Sjodin, niece Amber Ayres, and many extended family and friends.

Darlene was predeceased by her father Clarence, brother Don Girbav, in-laws Barb and Bill "Yodie" Velestuk and nephew Tyler Ayres.

Darlene and Ed met in 1974 and at the time she was already excelling at her career in bookkeeping. Summers were filled with trips to Saskatchewan to visit family and camping trips that would later become treasured family holidays. In 1979 they bought their first house in Kamloops, BC and after undergoing several renovations, they decided it was their forever home. The yard was filled with fruit trees, a swing set, and memories of fresh vegetables from the garden.

In 1982, Dar found her true calling when she became a mom for the first time to their daughter Tiana. Their son Brandon was born two years later in 1984 and the family of four was complete. Her kids were her pride and joy, and she couldn’t have been more proud.

Darlene was one of the most compassionate people you'd ever meet, and extended that support to anyone who needed her. She was a kind and loving partner, patient and engaged mom and dedicated friend. Her laugh and smile were infectious, and we’ll always remember her witty sense of humour. Our memories are filled with camping trips to Paul Lake, long road trips to Moose Jaw, the best birthday parties a kid could have, Christmas ornaments and decorations, hockey tournaments, her favourite pancake breakfast, rice pudding and chocolate chip cookies.

Her granddaughters Keala and Elia were her greatest joy these past 3 years. Watching them grow up and play together was something she treasured. There are so many memories that bring us comfort at this time, and her grandkids will grow up surrounded by reminders of how amazing their grandma was.

Special thank you to her homecare team, Dallas, Jayden and Tanya. Your friendship meant the world to Dar.

In lieu of flowers or cards, donations may be made to the ALS Society of BC (https://www.alsbc.ca/donate/) in Dar’s honour