Darlene Jean Smith

Darlene passed away peacefully at home with family by her side. Born in Vancouver to George and Jean, she is survived by husband, Bill Russell, daughter Denise Praill (Mark), grandchildren Lauren and Heather. Darlene has extended family and an incredible circle of close friends that count as family too, all of whom adored her.

Darlene was the definition of hard work, perseverance and success. Surviving polio at a young age, Darlene defied the odds and was able to live a full life. Her father passed unexpectedly and Darlene left school in Grade 9 to work and help support her family. It was then she began her working life with amazing colleagues that became friends, first at BC Hydro, then BC Gas and Terasen. Her career spanned several departments at the utility, and she proudly retired as Facilities Manager.

Darlene famously loved horse racing and the Hastings Racecourse community, as well as the California sunshine of Santa Anita and Del Mar. She made annual trips ‘down south’ to see the horses and to the Breeders’ Cup with good friends. She and Bill spent countless hours dancing at the Legion each weekend and relaxing at Birch Bay. At each destination, there were many friends made and many laughs shared.

More than anything, Darlene loved family and friends and spoiling all of us with her generosity and family favorite recipes. She was incredibly proud of daughter Denise and her love for granddaughters Lauren and Heather, “Nana’s winning entry of #1 & #1A”, was truly incomparable.

Darlene possessed an infectious, positive energy, unsurpassed elegance, and incredible thoughtfulness. She will live on in the hearts and minds of all of those who were lucky enough to know her. And of course, “Here’s to fast horses and big mutuels!”

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 2pm on Tuesday, November 26th at Ocean View Funeral Home, 4000 Imperial Street, Burnaby BC. Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations to honour Darlene would be appreciated to BC Cancer Foundation, Canuck Place Children’s Hospice or New Stride Thoroughbred Adoption Society.