It is with immense sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Darcy Draper of Blairmore, Alberta who tragically lost his life in a workplace accident in Fort McMurray, Alberta. He was 51 years of age.
Darcy was born on July 9, 1963 in Blairmore to parents, Harry & Ann Draper. His family had been established in the Crowsnest Pass for many years and this community was always home. Darcy’s childhood was full of fun and adventure and he carried on that same spirit throughout his entire life. He explored the mountainous backcountry while hunting and fishing and enjoyed curling, golfing, the occasional Budweiser and games of chance with his family and friends. He was an avid NASCAR enthusiast and devoted fan of the Calgary Flames, Edmonton Eskimos and Denver Broncos but Darcy’s greatest joy was for his beloved wife of thirty-one years, Vilma Draper (nee: Colucci) and his cherished children, Kyle & Brenna. His family was his priority and he worked hard to provide for them and raise them in the manner he himself lived by – “Live, Love & Laugh!” He was an amazing inspiration to us all especially with his dedication to his family and this community. His countless hours volunteered to the Bunny Bonspiel making the ice perfect, supporting the Ricky Ryp Foundation or Willow Valley Trophy Club and let us not forget the infamous Thunder In the Valley yard parties held at his place. Darcy lived his few too many years to the fullest and we will always hold him dearly in our hearts – may he rest in the peace of Christ.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Vilma Donna Draper of Blairmore, AB; his precious children, Kyle (Candace Hanson) Draper and Brenna Draper and her canine kid, Calli (aka Jelly); his sisters, Cindee Strickland, Dixie (Tim Heintzman) Draper and aunts Betty (Doug) Simoneau and Rose (Jim) Killoran; his half-siblings, Butch (Iris) Draper, Sandra (Syl) Draper, Trudy (Don Birch) Draper, Jim (Joanne) Otteson, Tom (Patty) Otteson and Larry (Melanie) Otteson; his nephews and nieces including Kevin “Lumpy” Draper, Todd (Char) Draper and Tammy “Freda” (Dean) Wall; his cousin, Sheri McDougall; his extended family and numerous friends he made throughout his lifetime.
He was predeceased by his parents, Harry & Ann Draper; his mother-in-law, Adelina Colucci; his uncles “Bobo” Yilek and Ralph Draper; and aunt, Cathy Draper.
The Celebration of Life service honouring Darcy’s memory will be held on Friday, December 12, 2014 at 3:00 pm at the Crowsnest Consolidated High School in Coleman (8901-20th Ave) off of Highway 3. Pastor Al Robinson officiating. After the reception, all are welcome to continue in sharing memories of Darcy at the Greenhill Hotel. Donations in memory may be made to the Ricky Ryp Foundation, (www.rickyrypfoundation.ca)
Fantin's Funeral Chapel entrusted with arrangements. (403) 562-8555.
Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.