Darrell Van De Venter

Darrell was a strong man with a big heart, who never met a stranger. He loved to serve others and spent time almost every day helping friends and neighbors.

He leaves a huge hole in the hearts of his family and friends who were always entertained by his stories, jokes, and great sense of humor. He brought joy to all he visited.

Darrell was born in Yakima, Washington, to Dean and Wanda Van De Venter. He could talk for hours telling tales of his ideal childhood: spending time with his brothers and friends, riding bikes and horses, fishing, and exploring.

He worked lunchtime at Taco Time (which his dad helped bring to Yakima) while attending Davis High School.

Darrell loved his "toys" which included ATVs, fast boats, fishing boats, corvettes, big trucks with loud pipes, and motorcycles. He loved the fishing adventures he and Kathy took to Alaska, Costa Rica, Florida, Lake Roosevelt, and the Columbia River. He especially liked to out-fish his wife whether they were fishing for bass, walleye, or sturgeon. He enjoyed having friends and family over for a meal (fish-frys, taco feeds, Yoshida burgers) and put on a great Christmas brunch.

Darrell spent most of his working years as an automotive mechanic, a job he excelled at!

He was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and served in many positions there, including missionary work taking care of cars for 185 missionaries in Central Washington and Northern Oregon, and making popcorn for the Mission Office's weekly meetings.

There wasn't much Darrell couldn't do, but he couldn't beat biliary cancer. The family would like to thank Dr. Wancata at Virginia Mason for her kindness and care.

Darrell is preceded in death by his parents. He leaves behind his wife Kathy, brothers Don and Dennis (Lorraine),sister Mari Lynne (Jim), sons Jason (Nini), Jeff (Jamie), John (Leeann), and Jared (Alicia), and Kathy's children Cullen, Whitney, and Lara. And lots of beloved grandchildren and friends, nieces and nephews, and a double-doodle named Stella.

Darrell once stated, "This is all anyone needs to know about me: I didn't beat my wife or kick my dog."

Visitation

January 22, 2026 from 3:00-7:00pm

Keith & Keith Funeral Home

902 W Yakima WA, 98902

Celebration of life

At the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints church building 705 s 38th Ave, Yakima WA 98902

Saturday January 24, 2026, from 5-7pm

There will be tacos, deserts, popcorn and cotton candy.

Casual dress come as you are.

A graveside service will be held separately for immediate family only.

Darrel never wanted a funeral “I just wanted to to have a party”.