July 12, 1934 - December 26, 2022
In Loving Memory ~
It is with sadness and love that we announce the passing of Darlene Christine McLeod. Darlene is survived by her children Jerry McLeod (Gaye), Marina McLeod, Lori Dougan (Richard), and Marilynn Jordan (Phil); her devoted grandchildren and great-grandchildren, her nieces, nephews, and her sisters-in-law Eldyne Matthews and Hazel Oien.
Darlene was predeceased by her parents, her nine siblings, and her loving husband Stuart McLeod, in 2000.
Darlene was born to Hennie Peterson and Oliver Oien near Fort Frances, Ontario and spent her childhood in the Rainy River District.
In 1951 Darlene married Stuart McLeod and eventually bought a home in Kenora, where the family spent summers at the Oien cabin on Lake of the Woods. Like many women of her era, Darlene was a busy homemaker who worked part-time to provide a few extras.
When they moved to Dryden, Darlene became a member of the Miriam Rebekah Lodge and held several offices including Noble Grand. Among her closest friends were Lucille Lavedure, Tom and Betty Corsie, and her AlAnon group.
In 1975 Darlene and Stuart realized their dream of living on Vancouver Island when they bought a castle-style house on Pine Street in Nanaimo. Darlene's welcoming kitchen with the rocking chair and the iconic breakfast nook, was her favourite spot to visit, often over a few games of crib, for over forty years.
Darlene loved music, dancing, laughter, and good stories. Her Scandinavian stubbornness, green thumb, timeless handwriting, and elbow-to-elbow, delicious family dinners (where she was always too busy serving to actually sit down and enjoy) are among the many memories her family will hold dear.
Darlene was known as "Gumpy", a name given to her by her first grandchild, Tanya, then 2 years old. The nickname suited her unique personality, small stature, and signature puff of white hair.
Gumpy's grandchildren loved her dearly. They share memories of her mystery cookies, home remedies, love of elephants, her spell-binding stories, and her inimitable rendition of the hilarious Mrs. Piggle Wiggle books.
Darlene's family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the staff members of Trillium Lodge in Parksville where she was clearly adored.
Darlene never wanted anyone to fuss over her. A family get-together will be held in her honour followed by interment in the Nanaimo Cemetery beside Stuart, because, as she said, she 'liked having him around.' In lieu of flowers or donations, please share your memories with the family at: gumpy1934@gmail.com
Hold Fast Gumpy, the sound of chimes and the scent of lavender will always remind us of you.