Darlene Menetta Ann Bishop: A Life of Adventure, Love, and Laughter. 

Darlene was born on November 30, 1947, in Mountain Park, Alberta. Her family later settled in Southern Alberta where Darlene spent her formative years in Lethbridge, creating childhood memories. Destiny soon led her to meet the love of her life, Lorne Douglas Bishop. Darlene and Lorne married in 1966, kicking off a love story filled with joy, resilience, and many miles traveled. They started their family in Calgary, welcoming their son Marvin Scott in 1967, followed by their daughter Deanna Lyn in 1969. Soon after, they set down roots in the quiet town of Raymond, where they completed their family with the birth of Bradley Douglas in 1976. 

Darlene built a fulfilling career in government services, ultimately becoming a beloved figure at the Alberta Treasury Branch in Raymond. For over 33 years she was more than just a familiar face—she was a friend, confidante, and pillar of the community. Her desk may have been at the bank, but her heart was in the lives she touched. Along the way, she earned multiple awards, but what truly mattered to Darlene were the friendships she nurtured and the love she spread.

While her career was successful, it was her family that held the center of her universe. Her home was always open, full of laughter, warmth and love. She poured her heart into her creative hobbies, becoming known for her intricate crocheting, which adorned the homes of friends and family alike. Her poetry, filled with love and introspection, was a reflection of her soul. 

As seasoned campers, Darlene and Lorne explored the great outdoors across North America. One of their greatest discoveries was Dickey Lake, Montana, where they found their home away from home and forged lifelong friendships. Year after year they gathered their growing family for peaceful moments, bonfire stories, and endless memories by the water. It became a treasured place, full of laughter and love.

In later years Darlene found her true calling as a grandmother. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren filled her days with joy and she became the very definition of what it means to be a “Grandma.” Whether at family events or cozying up with a good book, Darlene’s heart always belonged to her family. Her love radiated through every hug, every story told and every precious moment spent together. 

Darlene passed away on September 29, 2024, at St. Michael’s Health Centre surrounded by the love and care she always gave to others. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humor, and endless devotion to her family and friends. While we miss her deeply, we take comfort in knowing that she is reunited with her loved ones who passed before her, especially her beloved husband Lorne and her sons Scott and Bradley.

 She is survived by her loving daughter, Deanna (Jason); her cherished grandchildren, Tyler (Vanessa), Lindsay (Braedon), Brittany, Brady, Brittany (Kyle) and Ashton and her adored great-grandchildren, Bradley, Winstyn, Salem and Beckham. She also leaves behind her brother, Neil (Karen) Thirlwell, niece Megan (Dan) and a circle of close family and friends, including Ardyth (Bruce) Cummins, Gary (Betty) Schmidt and her beloved dog Lucy, who stayed by her side through it all.

Darlene’s celebration of life will take place on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at 1:00 PM at the Taylor Street Chapel, 330 West 200 North in Raymond, Alberta, followed by a private family interment at Mountain View Cemetary where she will be laid to rest with her husband and sons. Donations in Darlene’s honor can be made to the palliative care unit at St. Michael’s Health Centre. The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the compassionate caregivers who provided so much love and support to Darlene in her final days. A special thank you go Dr. Gregory Smith for the gentle and loving care he always gave her. 

We love you, Mom, Grandma Bailey, Grandma Great. Your legacy of love will carry on in every smile, every act of kindness and every precious memory you’ve left behind.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 pm, on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at the TAYLOR STREET CHAPEL, 330 West 200 North, Raymond, Alberta.

A private family Interment will follow at Mountain View Cemetery.