Obituary of Darren O'Donnell

It's with heavy hearts the family of Darren O'Donnell announces his sudden passing on February 28th, 2019. Darren fought and won numerous battles with cancer over the past six years. He died of a sudden and unexpected onset of pneumonia at the Moncton Hospital with his dearest friends and family by his side. Darren is the husband of a special lady, Janice Aubé. Janice walked the path with Darren with grit and devotion. He was the best father to his only child, Owen O'Donnell. In Owen's words, "Dad will never be gone". Darren leaves behind an angel, his loving and devoted sister Trudy (Sheldon) Lace. Throughout her life, and the whole ordeal of cancer, Trudy's love and selfless attention to her brother could not be surpassed. He was "Uncle Darren" to Trudy's and Sheldon's girls, Ava and Sophia Lace. Darren was very close to his parents, Mavis and Fred O'Donnell. His love and sincerity to his Mum and Dad never wavered. Just two weeks prior to his passing with Darren in great health, he and Mum and Dad flew to Montreal to see the Montreal Canadiens play Toronto. The "boys" allowed "Mum" to tag along. Trudy provided 3 great seats for Darren and his parents to make a memory that will last a lifetime. Those who know Darren know he's an "actor/comedian" who could mimic anyone! With his wit, charm and Scottish accent, he could cut up a room. When the waiters at the Scottish Bar in Montreal showed up in a kilt, we knew we were in for a performance! Darren was a very recognizable figure around and about Moncton. He worked in the food and music industry throughout the years in many of the popular establishments including Manager of Mexicali Rosa's. Later and during his bouts of illness, he was employed with Rock C103.fm Radio and absolutely enjoyed every minute of his "on air" shows by himself or with his good buddy, Sean -Crawdaddy- Crawford. "Dude" O'Donnell and Crawdaddy were a team on and off the air. Darren had two families; his family of MacKay's and O'Donnell's and the family of friends whose relationships he tended to like they were his lifelines. As Darren was passing, we invited all his friends (and family) to his room to hold him in their arms and tell him how much he was cherished. Darren is survived by another special lady, his soon to be 95 year old grandmother, Monna O'Donnell. He was devoted to "Grammy Garn". He is predeceased by his grandparents, Jack and Regina MacKay and Garnet O'Donnell. He is survived by his wife Janice, Son Owen, his parents, his sister and her husband, his Aunt Elaine (Little Lanie as he called her) and Aunt Deanna in London, Ontario. He made special friendships with Elaine's children, Dana, Leslie and Melanie and Deanna's children, Alison (Charlton) and Tony Collrin. Darren made himself a favorite with his parents-in-law, Marie and Yvon Aubé from Petit Rocher and Janice's sister Carolyn (Isobelle). They loved and supported him through this difficult journey. Throughout this journey of Darren's there were many physicians who worked diligently to keep Darren with us; surgeons, radiologists, chemotherapy techs etc. but one who stood above the rest was Dr. Abdul Salam and his assistant Carolyn. We express our sincere thanks to Moncton Hospital where Darren constantly got superior care and to Dr. Salam who "treated" him with compassion and expertise every step of the way; a very special doctor. Darren had a big personality with charm, wit, courage and love. He made such a beautiful impact on the people around him. Thank you Darren for "just being you". Love, Your Family and Friends For all those who wish to celebrate the life of our Darren, we will be at a visitation at the York Funeral Home in Nashwaaksis on Tuesday evening, 6 pm to 9 pm Funeral Services will be held at Gibson Memorial United Church on Wednesday, March 6th at 2:00 pm with Rev. Kelly Higgins officiating. Interment will be in New Bandon United Church Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, remembrances if so wished can be made to the donor’s choice or The Moncton Hospital, Oncology Department. Personal condolences may be offered through www.yorkfh.com