Darlene passed away after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Darlene had undergone many treatments at the Cross Cancer Institute in Edmonton, and initially was declared cancer free, and was proud to “ring the bell” of success. Several years later a routine follow-up determined the cancer had returned. Darlene again began the battle to beat the disease, undergoing many invasive surgeries, however the cancer had begun to spread aggressively. Treatments began to have detrimental effects and had to be stopped. With the help of many friends and neighbours, Darlene was able to downsize her storage lockers and residence in Edmonton, and move back to Claresholm in July. With the assistance of Home Care, Darlene was able to remain at her parent’s residence until her strength was lost, at which time she was moved to Palliative Care at the Claresholm General Hospital until her passing.
Darlene was born March 16, 1968 in Swift Current, SK to Stan and Marilyn Dewar. Darlene moved to Claresholm in 1973 when her father opened a new business in town with his brother Bob. Darlene attended all of her schooling in Claresholm, graduating from WCCHS in 1986. Darlene later attended Olds College, obtaining a Diploma in Animal Husbandry. Darlene followed this up with a diploma in Computer Assisted Drafting from Lethbridge Community College. She worked for several different employers over the years, with the majority being a dispatcher for trucking company in Edmonton. Darlene loved animals, including her horse Buddy; dogs Jessie and Ozzie, and her cat Meesha. Darlene liked to collect model horses, paint and make outfits for them. Darlene won several medals and ribbons at competitions where they were shown. One of her favourite memories was attending the factory in Kentucky where the model horses were made, and winning a raffle for a one of a kind horse made for the convention. Darlene also enjoyed camping and cheering on her Saskatchewan Roughriders and Vancouver Canucks. She had many hobbies: crafting, making special items for family and friends to celebrate holidays, birthdays, etc. Darlene always had a big dimply smile and a great sense of humour.
Darlene was fiercely independent and not afraid of a challenge. Later in life she bought a motorcycle, and took the new riders course, which she passed. She was very proud of this accomplishment. Darlene joined a group of other female riders, making many new friends.
Darlene is survived by her parents, Stan and Marilyn Dewar of Claresholm; brother Doug of Devon, AB; sister Doreen (Mike) Nelson of Dinsmore, SK; and her brother Derek (Erin) Dewar of Kaslo, BC. Darlene is also survived by many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. Darlene was predeceased by her grandparents, Stan and Ann Dewar of Swift Current, SK, plus Art and Mamie Ailsby, also of Swift Current, SK. Darlene was also predeceased by her uncle Dennis Ailsby of Edmonton, and her sister-in-law Brenda Dewar  of Devon, AB.   Darlene will be missed by many.
Darlene wished that no formal service take place, but rather she be cremated and family to join together in the spreading of her ashes where the wild horses roam. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to the Wild Horse Association of Alberta, a charity for animal rescue, or cancer research as a fitting tribute in memory of Darlene.
At Darlene’s request, no formal funeral service will be held.
A private family scattering of ashes will take place at a later date.