Obituary of Darlene Pyl

Darlene Mariellis Pyl (nee Barker) It is in loving memory that we announce the passing of Darlene Pyl, 59, peacefully at home on Sunday, July 13, 2008. She will be remembered as a dynamic individual whose incredible creativity and enthusiasm were matched only by her compassion and selflessness. Born in Brandon, Darlene grew up both there and in Swan River. Following graduation from Harrison High (Brandon), she studied liberal arts at the University of Lethbridge. Her creativity led her to a career in communications and marketing, with positions at CJAY TV, Travel Manitoba, Manitoba Hydro, and the Apprenticeship Branch of the provincial government. Following her retirement, she worked part-time for a Korean student exchange program. Darlene donated thousands of hours to volunteer pursuits, most notably as the longtime co-coordinator of the Linden Woods community craft sale, in addition to many other endeavours in the community and at her children's schools. Darlene relished travelling, looking forward to any opportunity to do so. From navigating the labyrinthine streets of Rome in a camper with her husband, to discovering her Irish roots with her sister, to a relaxing week in a Cuban resort with her family, her zeal for exploration left behind a footprint spanning many corners of North America and the world. Darlene is survived by her husband, Wally, and her two children, Michael (Kirsten) and Kalyn, her sister, Judy (Jozef) Lodeweyckx, mother-in-law, Mary, brother and sister-in-law, Dennis and Steffie Wawrykow, as well as many nephews, nieces, aunts, uncles, cousins, and close friends. She was predeceased by her father, Jack, mother, May, and father-in-law, Michael. The family would like to thank the staff of CancerCare Manitoba as well as the aides and Palliative Care nurses who helped look after Darlene in her last months. If friends so wish, donations in Darlene's memory may be made to CancerCare Manitoba. Prayers are scheduled for Sunday, July 20 at 7:00 p.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel ,1442 Main St. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, July 21 at 1:00 p.m. at St. Ignatius Church, 255 Stafford St. Interment to follow in Assumption Cemetery, 3990 Portage Ave. An online book of condolences may be signed at www.cropo.com