Darryl H. Lake
With profound sadness and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Darryl H. Lake on Monday, September 16th, 2024, at the age of 82.
Son of the late Harry and Minnie (Parsons) Lake. Loving and devoted husband of almost 60 years to Gail (Jelley) Lake. Darryl was the cherished father to Andra (Brian), Deirdre (Devon), and Melanie. Proud Papa to Hailey (Paul), Holly (Jared), Emily (Jayden), Liam, Caleigh (Tanner), Olivia and Evan. Survived by his brothers Kayll (Joanne) and Jude (Florence). Special brother-in-law to Betty Ann Deir.
Darryl lived a full and meaningful life dedicated to his wife, his family, and his work. A community builder in every sense of the word, Darryl leaves behind a legacy celebrated by his children, grandchildren, peers, and students.
Born and raised in Sault Ste. Marie, Darryl grew up fishing alongside his father and brothers and working summers at Algoma Steel. He moved to Ottawa to pursue both his bachelor’s degree and Masters in Organic Chemistry. After meeting the love of his life, Gail, on a blind date, the rest was history.
Darryl and Gail married in 1965 and would soon start their new life together in Sudbury. Their family would quickly grow to five where they welcomed three daughters, each fiercely proud of their father. In Sudbury, Darryl began a 35-year career as a beloved educator at Cambrian College, combining his love of chemistry, people and teaching. Some of Darryl’s fondest memories were his early days working at “the College” in its formative years. After rising to Dean of Health Sciences, Trades and Technology, Darryl knew his contribution to education wasn’t done.
A man with tremendous vision, Darryl tirelessly pushed for the creation of NORCAT, which he founded in 1995. After 16 years shaping the organization from the ground up and creating a lifetime of treasured relationships and memories, Darryl retired. In his retirement, he took great joy in building intricate model boats, tending to his impressive garden, enjoying lunches with old friends at Mr. Prime Rib, volunteering as a board member with the Northern Cancer Foundation, and spending time with his best girl.
If you were lucky enough to know Darryl, you knew him for his booming but gentle voice, his selflessness, and his dedication to his community. Darryl had a remarkable ability to make those around him feel valued and respected. He was an incredible source of inspiration to his family, always quick with encouragement and a kind word. He was permanently beaming with pride for his children and grandchildren.
Darryl was happiest when he was teaching in the classroom, fishing on Penage, playing piano for Gail, or sharing stories and tall tales with his family. A modest man, Darryl could teach himself anything through sheer will and determination.
Darryl will be remembered as a true visionary, for his sense of humour, and for having the kindest heart. Above all, it was his family, his friends, and helping people that mattered most to Darryl.
Memorial Service in the R.J. Barnard Chapel at the Jackson and Barnard Funeral Home, 233 Larch St., Sudbury Monday, September 23, 2024, at 10am. (Friends may call from 1:30pm – 4:30pm Sunday or after 9:30am Monday). Cremation at the Park Lawn Crematorium.
Darryl loved flowers and they are welcome or donations to the Northern Cancer Foundation are appreciated-a place near and dear to Darryl.
For those who wish to view the service online: https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/index.php?data=MTcyNjc2MzA2MjMyODk4MSZvbmVyb29tLWFkbWluJnZpZXdfYnV0dG9u
For donations or messages of condolence, www.lougheedfuneralhomes.com