It is with great sadness to announce the passing of Darel. He passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at the age of 92 years in the Red Deer Regional Hospital after a long 3-month stay. He was born on December 1, 1933, in Madden, AB, to Joseph and Edith Pride. He was the second youngest of 8 children. Darel moved to the Trochu area when he was 17 years old and began work on the farm for his brother-in-law, Leo Stankievech and then later for George & Walter Stankievech. In October 1953, he began his lifelong career working for Trochu Motors for 43 years. In 1958, he met the love of his life, Donna, from Lethbridge, AB, and they were married on July 23, 1960. Darel & Donna celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary this past year. In 1970, their son, Mark, was born, and in 1973, their daughter, Shauna, was born.

In 1993, Darel retired from Trochu Motors and carried on becoming Trochu’s “Mr. Fix It” in his home garage. He repaired many snowmobiles, motorbikes, lawn mowers, quads, etc., for satisfied customers from many miles away. Darel had a great talent for fixing things.

Darel was an avid sportsman. Darel’s earlier years were spent playing baseball, fishing, hunting, refereeing hockey, golfing, camping, riding motorcycles, snowmobiles & quads. He even taught figure skating. Many years were spent with good friends camping in the West Country, and he could be seen in the late fall, pulling his hunting shack out to the mountains. One day, the police saw him coming and stopped him to check if he had a gypsy wagon behind. They had a good laugh over that.

Darel (Papa) was blessed with 4 beautiful grandchildren whom he loved deeply and was so proud of. He always let everyone know that. He always had a twinkle in his eye when he spoke of them.

Darel was known for his beautiful display of Christmas lights for many years in Trochu, AB. He was also the organizer of the first year of the Arboretum Christmas lights. As years went on and declining health took over, Darel spent his time playing cards, doing jigsaw puzzles and visiting at the Drop-In. In August 2023, Darel & Donna decided to move to Red Deer, AB, as upkeep on the home and yard became too much. This move also brought them closer to family. They moved into the Three Robins, a seniors' independent living apartment, where they made many good friends.

During his 3-month stay at Red Deer Hospital, he experienced much love, compassion, and care from the wonderful nurses and doctors. They always left his room smiling after debating who was his favourite.

Darel was predeceased by his parents, his two brothers, and his five sisters. Darel was the last living sibling.

Darel will be lovingly missed by his wife, Donna; his son, Mark (Shannon); their two children, Adam and Ava; his daughter, Shauna (Scott Rausch); their two children, Hannah and Kaylee; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

A private Graveside Service will take place for the immediate family. Memorial Services will be held at the Trochu Fellowship Centre on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. with a reception to follow.

If family and friends so desire, in lieu of flowers, memorial tributes may be made directly to STARS.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Darel's family here.