We Remember

HOWE, Darren Lawrence

February 10, 1965 — October 1, 2025

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Darren Howe, who left us peacefully on October 1st, 2025 from the KGH ICU in Kelowna, British Columbia, surrounded by the love of family and dear friends, following complications from endocarditis.

Born on February 10th, 1965 in Deep River, Ontario, Darren lived life with purpose, generosity, and enthusiasm.

Darren began his career in Waterloo with Mutual Life before moving to Ottawa, where he built a highly respected and successful business first with Clarica and then ultimately with Sun Life Financial as Regional Vice-President for Eastern Ontario.  More than a professional achievement, his work was a reflection of his character—rooted in integrity, hard work, and genuine care for others. He mentored many, led by example, and earned the admiration and trust of colleagues and clients who became lifelong friends.

In recent years, Darren and his family made Kelowna home where he soldiered on with the effects of stage 4 metastatic colon cancer.  He was passionate about making the best of each day, embracing the beauty and spirit of the Okanagan. He loved golf, boating, and discovering great wines—but above all, he loved sharing these moments with others.

Darren had a remarkable gift for maintaining old friendships, making many new ones in Kelowna and bringing people together. His curiosity about others and his warmth created meaningful connections wherever he went—be it Deep River, Waterloo, Ottawa, Kelowna, or around the world.

Above all else, Darren cherished his family. He was a devoted husband to Mary Ann MacIntosh, a loving father to Alex and Sophie, and a proud grandfather to Jax and Cali. He was a beloved son to Lucy Howe (predeceased by Larry Howe) and a caring brother to Gillian, Russell, and Krista, and uncle to many nieces and nephews (Jade, Ryan, Heidi, Rory, Kristen, Noah, Jena, Kiana, Kieran).

Darren will be deeply missed for his kindness, wisdom, unique brand of humour, and the sincere way he made others feel seen and valued. His legacy lives on in the countless memories shared and the stories that will continue to be told with love.

In lieu of flowers and in honour of Darren, please consider a donation to the University of Ottawa Heart Institute Foundation or the Kelowna General Hospital Foundation. Eternal thanks to the incredibly caring KGH ICU medical team.

In keeping with Darren’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Friends and family are invited to assemble on Friday, October 24th in the Sacred Space of the Beechwood National Memorial Centre, 280 Beechwood Ave. Ottawa, ON after 10 am. Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 am followed by a reception where the family will receive condolences.

A private Celebration of Life will be held in Kelowna on Saturday, November 8th – further details will be shared with family and friends.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area call “Condolences”.

Service
Friday, October 24, 2025, at 11:00 AM

Location
Sacred Space of the Beechwood National Memorial Centre

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University of Ottawa Heart Institute Foundation or KGH Foundation Link: www.foundation.ottawaheart.ca/, www.kghfoundation.com/

 


Service Information

Service Details


The service for HOWE, Darren Lawrence is scheduled for Friday, October 24, 2025, at 11:00 AM. Below you will find the map for the service location and the contact information should you have any questions.

Address & Contact for Service Location:

Sacred Space of the Beechwood National Memorial Centre

280 Beechwood Ave, Ottawa, ON K1L 8A6

Phone:


Special Requests:

None.


Funeral Pointers:

 


Condolences

  • Nina Jiang says:

    Wish Darren’s spirit, love, dignity, kindness will always be remembered by all!! Wish your family will passing through this changing time and keep well!!

  • Jacquie Kinloch says:

    So sad to hear this news. Many great memories of Darren in high school. He was bright, athletic and socially he could hold an audience with a funny story or a good joke. His passing is certainly a reminder that our time here is precious and fleeting.
    RIP Dude. Ms. K

  • Victor McBride says:

    My condolences to the Howe family.

  • Katioucha Telasco says:

    I was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Darren. He was not only a remarkable colleague and leader, but also a kind and genuine person who made a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of working with him. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. My thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.

  • Dana & GoodLife team says:

    So sorry for your loss. I was so saddened to hear of his passing Darren was a very friendly man always talking travel with the GoodLife crew It is very admirable how he lived life to the fullest. He will be greatly missed

  • Kevin Smith says:

    So sorry to hear of. Darren’s passing . Deepest condolences to the Howe family

    • Kyle Kliss says:

      My deepest condolences to the Howe family. I had the pleasure of getting to know the family during my time working at Aqua Boat Club. Darren was one of my favourite members. Always was positive energy and interested in having good conversations before and after boating. He will be greatly missed.

  • Jody Pfaff says:

    My sincere condolences to the Howe family. I worked with Darren at Sun Life. It has been quite a while since I saw and spoke with Darren but I have great memories of playing football together and working together. He was a great guy and a great gentleman. My thoughts and prayers are with the family at this difficult time. All the best to you.

  • Jeff Kechnie says:

    Sorry for your loss…I had the pleasure of meeting Darren at Mutual Life as we begun or respective careers. We became friends and teammates while playing hockey, baseball, and volleyball…he was such a bright light and a fierce competitor. He loved his G & R when getting together socially in our bachelor days! We nicknamed him “Chicklets” because he had that million dollar smile.! He definitely loved life and everyone around him!! With fond memories… Big R

  • David Chidley says:

    So sorry to hear this sad news. Sending my heartfelt condolences to the Howe family. I have so many wonderful memories of Darren from our days back in school and in the years that followed. Wherever he was, his positive and dynamic personality made him a valued friend to all lucky enough to have known him. He will be missed.

  • Vince Evangelista says:

    My deepest condolances for your loss. I had the fortune of working withe Darren at Sun LIfe. He was truly a class act, and one oif the finest gentlemen I had the pleasure to meet. May your memories of him be a blessing and a source of strength.

  • Brent Gutzman says:

    I am so sorry to hear of his passing, my condolences to his family and friends. I knew Darren in High School but lost touch after going to college, he still looks the same, never ages.

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