Darrell Jay Wirkkula

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of artist Darrell Jay Wirkkula of Quartzsite, Arizona. Darrell was born on August 15, 1956 in Hibbing, Minnesota, to Victor and Shirley Wirkkula. He passed away on August 6, 2026, at the age of 69.

Family, friends, and acquaintances will remember Darrell for his lightning-fast wit, his passion, and his easy laugh. He was remarkably talented, funny, and creative, with a beautiful singing voice.

Darrell was an accomplished oil painter and scratchboard artist. He was known for his command of color theory, perspective, and the meticulous detail in his work. His notable works include his cabin nocturnes, Minneapolis by Moonlight, and numerous wildlife paintings and scratchboards.

He is remembered by his daughter, Amanda Catherine (Brad) Duthie; his grandchildren, Claire, Emrys, and Grace; his brothers, Dale (Renae) Wirkkula and Dave (Jayne) Wirkkula; his nephew, Jeremy (Michelle); his niece, Rachel; and six grand-nieces and grand-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Victor “Gusty” and Shirley (Mattson) Wirkkula, and his sister, Vicky.

Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.