It is with heavy hearts that the family of Darren Stephen McCarty announces his tragic and sudden passing on January 24, 2026, at the age of 57, as the result of a snowmobile accident near Spirit River, Alberta. Darren was peacefully lifted into the arms of Christ.

Born on February 9, 1968, Darren was raised in Spirit River, where he attended public school and developed the strong work ethic, curiosity, and community pride that defined his life. As a student, Darren excelled in track and field, was active in Cubs and Scouts, participated in ski hill tournaments, and enjoyed music—taking piano lessons and learning to play bass guitar. He also showed a creative side through the drama club, where he helped design and build sets and occasionally stepped into acting roles.

Family ski trips to Jasper became a cherished annual tradition, and Darren often distinguished himself in the Mogul Ski Hill Competitions, frequently bringing home gold. Summers were spent making fond family memories at Sturgeon Lake, filled with fishing, swimming, and time together.

After graduating from Spirit River High School, Darren set his sights on following in his father’s footsteps in the trades. Within a few short years, he earned Journeyman Certificates in Carpentry and Welding, later achieving Red Seal certification in both. Working alongside his family at K&M Building Contractors, Darren quickly rose to the role of Foreman. Together with his brother Derrell, he eventually stepped into ownership of the family business, helping guide K&M through decades of respected residential, commercial, and community construction projects across the Peace Country.

Darren was a proud patriot who deeply loved his country and took great pride in his community. He felt honored each time a local project came his way, knowing his work would leave a lasting impact. Known for his attention to detail, discipline, and tireless work ethic, Darren was often described as a workaholic—spending most of his time on job sites. Upon completing a project, he rewarded himself with sun-and-sand vacations, most often to Mexico, where he developed a love for the culture, music, and language, even earning himself what family fondly referred to as a “degree” in Spanish.

Outside of work, Darren had a passion for sports cars, dirt bikes, motorcycles, and snowmobiles, and enjoyed outdoor adventures such as kayaking and fishing. He resided in a studio suite at his shop, located adjacent to his parents’ home, keeping himself readily available whenever they needed help—perhaps also ensuring continued access to his mom’s cooking.

A man of quiet but steadfast faith, Darren attended Victory Church in Grande Prairie and lived his devotion through service, humility, and integrity. His zest for life, discipline, and commitment to excellence extended into his relationship with our Lord and Savior.

Darren’s demeanor visibly changed when he was with his daughter and grandsons—his gestures softened, his heart grew, and his step quickened. He was a proud father and grandfather who cherished every moment spent with Kyra, her husband Tyler and their boys.

Darren is lovingly remembered by his parents, Roy and Denise McCarty; his daughter Kyra Daly (Tyler); his treasured grandsons Levi, Jordan, and Riley; his sister Siri Jarvis (Tracy); his nieces Stephanie Aiton (Andrew) and Tegan McCarty; his nephew Connor McCarty; and his great-nieces and great-nephews Aurora, Preston, Andrew, Anastasia, and Alexander Aiton, along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and colleagues.

He was predeceased by his beloved younger brother Derrell McCarty, his nephew Kaelyn McCarty, and his grandparents Stan and Edith McCarty, and Steve and Ruth Kosabeck, whom he now joins in heaven.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Spirit River Centennial Hall (4812–44 Avenue, Spirit River). Interment will follow at the Spirit River Cemetery, with a luncheon to be held afterward at the hall. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be livestreamed, with a link available shortly before the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Central Peace Palliative Care Committee (Box 339, Spirit River, AB T0H 3G0) or David Thompson Bible Camp (www.dtbc.ca/get-involved).

Darren completed his life’s lessons with the same excellence he brought to everything he did—far too soon, yet fully lived. His life has come full circle, and his legacy will continue through the lives he touched, the community he built, and the love he gave so quietly and generously.

While every effort is made to ensure a smooth livestream, technical or broadcast issues may occasionally occur beyond the control of Oliver’s Funeral Home.