Daryl Thornton Kirkwood

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the untimely passing of Daryl Thornton Kirkwood on May 10, 2024, at the age of 64.

Daryl was born on June 27, 1959, in Maple Ridge, British Columbia, to Dirk and Iris Kirkwood. Growing up alongside his brother Lee on the shores of the Fraser River in Whonnock, B.C., Daryl developed a deep affinity for the water. His father was a tugboat captain for Seaspan, and his parents built a tugboat, called the Ocean Iris, which still sails on the Fraser River. Daryl worked on his parent’s antique charter yacht, the Maui Lu, and another vessel the Taconite, where he cherished every moment spent on the waves. His love for boating led him to reside on his own vessel for a period of time.

Daryl graduated from Maple Ridge Secondary School in 1977 before pursuing higher education in technology and telecommunications at BCIT and Edmonds Community College in the United States. Daryl has taken some intensive vocational testing which informed him of his ability and potential and motivated him to pursue and use his gifts. During his time at Edmonds Community College his exceptional academic ability came to the attention of his instructors, and he was given the keys to the laboratories to use on any day or hour.  In November 1993, he commenced his career with BC Hydro, where his talents and intellect shone brightly for three decades. Despite a rigorous selection process where 5 applicants were to be hired out of several hundred, Daryl emerged as a distinguished colleague. His final role as a Communication Protection Control Technologist at BC Hydro exemplified his ability and dedication to his craft.

Daryl led an active and fulfilling life, embracing activities like biking, jogging, and even completing a marathon a few years ago. A voracious reader, he delighted in sharing and debating the nuances of his latest literary discoveries. His passion for exploration extended to sightseeing and camping, where he reveled in the natural beauty of British Columbia and Mexico alongside his wife, Raquel, and their children, Jaxon and Shania.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Raquel; his children, Jaxon and Shania; his beloved mother, Iris; his siblings, Lee, Lynn (Joey) and Dana; his nieces and nephew, Tessa, Grace and Zachariah, and a vast network of in-laws, cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends. He is preceded in death by his father Dirk, sister Laurie and surrogate father, Daryl Brown.

Daryl was renowned for this brilliant mind and infectious sense of humor. Whether sharing a hearty laugh or orchestrating playful pranks, his presence brought joy to those around him. While some may recall his mischievous antics, it was his generosity and care toward his family, warmth, twinkling eyes, and compassionate spirit that endeared him to all who knew him.

In honoring Daryl’s wishes, a Mass will be held at St. Ann’s Church. Family, friends and colleagues are invited to celebrate and honor his remarkable life. A reception will follow, providing an opportunity to share cherished memories and celebrate his enduring legacy.

Inscribed with love and penned by his brother Lee Kirkwood, these words stand as a tribute to Daryl, “Forever is your future as you hold hands with time, your love shining forth from your wisdom so kind.”

Daryl’s unexpected death leaves and irreplaceable void. His bereaved family struggling to come to terms with the reality of his passing, will always remember Daryl with great love. His kindness illuminated our lives, and his memory will forever reside in our hearts. Until we meet again, rest in peace, my dearest brother.