November 30, 1973 - November 20, 2020
It is with heavy hearts the family announces the unexpected passing of Darla, our beloved mother, sister, cousin and friend who passed away at Vancouver General Hospital after succumbing to her injuries from an accident on Nov. 19, 2020 in Genelle, BC.
Darla was born on November 30, 1973 in Trail, BC to Janet and Herb Neumann and raised in Castlegar, BC. As a young girl Darla had many interests. Playing fastball was a very large part of Darla's upbringing, she was an avid 2nd base player. For many years her mom Jan was her team's coach.
Darla also enjoyed spending time on their boat, fishing with the family around the Kootenays and on Vancouver Island. Her Grandma and Grandpa were a huge part of Darla's childhood. One of her happy memories was every year for a week we'd all pile into the motorhome and head to the Oasis Campground in Osoyoos with Grandma and Grandpa.
After graduating from SHSS Darla moved to Vancouver for a few years but ended up coming back home to Castlegar. Darla's passion for life allowed her to work in many different fields and was never afraid to take on new challenges, in which she excelled. While in Vancouver at 19 she managed a gas station and then receptionist at NoFear which was one of the most popular trending clothing line at the time.
Upon her return to Castlegar she worked at Coast Tractor starting as receptionist and worked her way into equipment coordinator where she brought her own flair to the position. One of Darla's own proudest accomplishments was being a facilitator and job coach for the Mature Workers Program through Ashland Training.
On May 9, 2007 Darla's focus on life changed when she brought her handsome son Rowen into the world. Rowen was always Darla's main focus and she would always do everything she could to give him whatever he needed and deserved in his life.
Although faced with some personal challenges later in life, true to her warrior spirit she overcame. As many in similar situations are aware sadly there is a stigma that follows. It was through her journey that Darla developed deep empathy for those who experienced their own struggles and became a source of support for many in the community.
One could often find her running errands for others or taking them to appointments. Darla was a no nonsense person and would always stand up for what she believed in and for others.
You could always rely on Darla for bringing an amazing energy and zest for life wherever she went. She could be heard before she entered a room, and her presence remained long after she left. One cannot think about Darla without smiling. She was compassionate, a beautiful soul with a contagious smile and easily made friends everywhere she went. Darla was much loved by her family and friends, her shining spirit will be missed by all who knew her.
She was predeceased by her parents, Herb and Janet Neumann and her grandparents Otto and Lillian Neumann.
Darla leaves behind, the light of her life, her son Rowen, her partner Leo Goetting, sister Deanna, brother Brent (Kim) and nieces Jordyn and London as well as Rowen's father Greg Gritchin.
There will Celebration of Life will be held at a later date when circumstances permit.
On behalf of the family we would to thank those that helped Darla at the accident, the first responders, paramedics, the medical staff that cared for her at KBRH and VGH, as well our family and friends that have reached out in support during this sad, difficult time.