DARREN GRIMOLFUR GRIMOLFSON

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DARREN GRIMOLFUR GRIMOLFSON September 20, 1966 - November 25, 2009 Peacefully at his home on November 25, 2009, Darren Grimolfson, beloved husband, father and son passed away after a courageous battle with an inoperable brain tumor. Left to treasure his memory are his wife Raelene, daughter Amanda and son Atli; father Dennis Grimolfson (Arnes) and special friend Linda; sister Kendra Hapel (Karsten), nephew Tristan and niece Dayna (Tyndall); father and mother-in-law Ray and Norma Johnson (Portage la Prairie); many aunties, uncles, cousins and friends, and dog Patches. Predeceased by his mother Betty in 2001 - a loss he never got over; his hero and Afi, Grimsi Grimolfson; Grandmother Dolly Grimolfson; Grandparents Daisy and Russell Gillespie. Darren was born and raised in Winnipeg but spent as much time as he could in Riverton, MB with his grandparents and cousins. Darren's happiest times were those spent with his Afi Grimsi either fishing or riding on the Hecla Island Ferry which his Afi captained. Summers were spent at Arnes where Darren had many friends and adventures growing up. Hecla Island was one of Darren's favourite places and a part of his heritage which he took great pride in. He spent as much time as he could on the families' property landscaping it to a park-like state until his illness limited him. Darren was respected as a hard and conscientious worker and was employed with SEG, Manitoba Highways and Goodyear. Many winters were spent as a commercial fisherman on Lake Winnipeg. He was very particular in everything he did and took pride in his work. He made many lasting friendships and had lots of stories about his workdays. Darren took pride in his physical abilities - enjoying heavy, physical work, weightlifting and achieving a brown belt Tiger Claw. He regretted being unable to complete his black belt due to illness. Darren's life revolved around his children (Amanda and Atli) who were his greatest pride and joy. He never missed a weekend with his Amanda, never missed a practice, game or recital, and would do anything for her. He treasured his time with her and proudly watched her grow up into a beautiful young lady. Darren was also a devoted father to son, Atli, picking him up from daycare, taking him to nursery school, keeping track of his medicine and teaching him to be strong, to play ball, count, spell his name and to look after himself. He was most at peace when he had his children with him and he knew where they were. Darren was a great cook - especially on the BBQ. We will all miss his special pizza and popcorn. Hecla Island and popcorn led Darren to lose his long desired riding lawn mower. A trip to Hecla Island in 2003 led Darren to Raelene; his special popcorn led to a declaration of love and the rest is history! The riding lawn mower became an engagement ring and they were wed at Hecla Island in 2004. Raelene and Darren made their home together in Portage la Prairie. In 2005 Darren and Raelene were blessed with the birth of their son Atli Grimolfur who completed their happiness. The diagnosis of a brain tumor in 2004, resulted in many changes in Darren's life. He was unable to engage in most of his favourite activities, including work. Although extremely frustrated with his situation he was able to accomplish several projects that he believed strongly in. He achieved posthumous recognition for his beloved Afi Grimsi with the Marine Safety Award in 2008; he was presented with the horn and float ring of the Hecla Island Ferry for his efforts on behalf of his Afi and the history of Hecla Island. His current project was to rename the Hecla Island Causeway for his Afi, Captain Grimsi Grimolfson. Darren also volunteered on the board of the Portage Day Care and in his one and one half years spearheaded two successful fundraisers for their building fund. He also was a volunteer with COPP. He always said that his projects were his legacy to his children. Darren was a hard nut to crack but underneath he had a heart of gold. He always said he was anti-social but he left an impression on people he met even just briefly and made friends easily. He remembered special dates and would reach out to people if he was thinking of them just to keep in touch. He was known for his strength, energy, stubbornness, incredible work ethic, attention to detail, devotion to family and friends, sense of humour and quick wit. He loved to tease and to make people laugh. His beautiful deep chuckle will be greatly missed. Darren fought courageously long and hard everyday to be the best husband, father, son, and friend he could be but he was getting tired and was frequently in a lot of pain. Although we will miss him dearly, his struggle is over and he is at peace. Mom saw you getting tired A cure was not to be She wrapped her arms around you And whispered, Come with me . Through all those years you struggled To keep up with the pace You always had a wise crack With that grin upon your face. Loyal and devoted To the family that you made The love that's shared between you Would be impossible to fade. Thanks for the memories Darren We hoped there could be more You gave so much in half the time Most people wait a lifetime for. Kendra Hapel Goda Nott Elskan Min Not a day will pass There will be a private family committal at the Riverton Cemetery A Kaffi Hus is planned for Sunday, December 6, 2009 at the Lakeview Resort in Gimli from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. for family and friends to honour Darren's life. If friends so wish, a trust fund has been established for Darren's children, Amanda and Atli, through the Royal Bank - Branch 3, transit #03777, account #5091954. Please make any cheques to Leslie Schaan in trust of Amanda and Atli Grimolfson . Alternatively, donations can be made in Darren's memory to the Variety Children's Heart Centre, FE241 - 685 William Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0Z2. Neil Bardal Inc. 949-2200

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 02, 2009