Thursday, July 6, 2023
I had the pleasure of knowing Darcy for the last 6 years. We worked on two projects together, the North Commuter in Saskatoon and on a bridge build in Fort St. John. I am very saddened to hear of his passing, we formed a close connection during our time working together.
Darcy was one of the hardest and toughest workers I ever had the pleasure of working with. A man of few words, he went about his labours with a stoic disposition, never complaining or gossiping, just doing what needed to be done. I’ve been in the same trade for the last 16 years and I can say that he was probably the best concrete finisher I ever worked with. He used to say to me after about 6 beers on a Friday after work, “You know what Mike, you’re great but you f*cking piss me off! I used to be as strong as you!” It makes me happy to know my hard work and strength earned his respect.
When Darcy did have something to say about his personal life, it was always about his children. As a man he could be described as a father first and foremost. We talked many times about how proud he was of them as well as how much he worried when teenagers would sometimes behave as teenagers do. I would try to put his mind at ease during these conversations, telling him how I went through struggles when I was young but I pulled through because I had a good family and I came from good stock. “And your kids definitely come from good stock Darcy.”
To his children if you are reading this: your Dad loved you more than anything in this world. I know this, because he told me more than once. I am so sorry that he was taken from you too soon. Know that nothing would make him happier or prouder to look down on you and see you making the best of your lives, growing into the good and honest adults he always knew you would be. Though it hurts to see him go know that he is still with you, he lives on through you, you are his true life’s work. God bless you and your family and may your pain fade in time to give way to the more pleasant memories that you will keep with you forever.
Sincerely,
Michael Classen
