It is with great sadness we announce the unexpected passing of our Beloved Sister and Aunt, Darlene Budinski born March 21, 1953, passed December 24, 2021. World traveller and avid gardener with a deep love of nature, Darlene’s warm and gracious heart we will hold lovingly in our memories. Remembering fondly her light and sparkling smile and that twinkle of adventure that shone in her eyes.
She is survived by her brothers Steven (Shirley) Budinski and Robert Budinski of Yellowknife, NWT. Her nieces Vicki Budinski and Lori Budinski and her great nieces and nephew, Haylee Hatton, Kylie Hatton, Ella Meraw and Jacob Meraw.
The family will be holding a private ceremony to Celebrate her life.
I was sad to hear about my dear friend Darlene. I don’t know where to start – there are so many memories. We worked together at the Government for many years and during that time we also spent alot of free time together. We regularly went for walks down to Hawrelak Park, Mill Creek Ravine, Kinsmen Park and in her neighborhood of Petrolia. Our annual girls trip to Banff was always alot of fun and on one of our last days when we would pack a lunch and walk up the mountain and then take the tram down. That was a night to celebrate! Darlene joined my sister and I on a trip to Vancouver – never forget getting lost and the RCMP had to give us directions – we laughed so hard. Darlene had a great sense of humour, a kind heart and was a true friend. She loved all animals but always enjoyed seeing our dog Cruz. Darlene enjoyed coming with me to see my parents where we would enjoy tea and fresh cinnamon buns. Darlene loved her sweets too.
Family was very important to Darlene She had a special place in her heart for her nieces and nephew. She would always share how they were doing and was so proud of them as well as their moms. Wilf and Shirley were her go too – whenever we were over and said can we help you do this or that it was always – no Wilf is coming over and him or Shirley will help. With Covid we did not see each other but I have all the memories of her and I will miss our visits – trips to the outlets stores – lunch of French Fries -good bye my friend I will cherish all of our memories.
My condolences to the family. I met Darlene in the late 70’s when working in payroll, I was leaving and she took over my job but we always kept in touch. Because of Covid we weren’t able to meet up very often the past couple of years, I’ll miss her.
We had the honour and priviledge of knowing Darlene as a close and treasured friend. Her endearing smile, her kindness and graciousness made her authentically genuine. Please be assured that our prayers, thoughts and deepest sympathy are with your entire family. Joan and Nelson Oleksyn
My condolences to Darlene’s family and friends. She always spoke very highly and with pride when it came to her family. I met Darlene when I started a new job and she was assigned as my Team Lead. We quickly became friends and enjoyed photography, visiting garden centres, lunch, concerts, shopping and numerous road trips together. She was a kind, soft spoken gentle soul who will always have a place in my heart. Rest in peace my friend.