Darlene Cleutinx

Darlene Cleutinx

Peacefully with her daughter by her side on August 19, 2022, Darlene received her angel wings at the age of 64 years old.

Darlene leaves to mourn, her pride and joy and only child, Melonie, her partner Steph, three beautiful grand daughters: Paisley (her Star), Liberty (her Moon) and Soleil (her Sunshine). Also, Daryl her partner of 12 years, all of whom she loved dearly. She also leaves to mourn her siblings, Glen, Noreen (Joe) and Roxann (Shane) and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and countless friends.  Everyone mattered to her!  She was predeceased by her parents, Marcel and Evonne Cleutinx.

Darlene was born on May 25, 1958 in Swan Lake Manitoba. She grew up and spent most of her youth on the family farm near Bruxelles where she attended early years at Ste. Marie School and secondary school at Notre Dame Collegiate. Fearlessly, she chose to migrate to Winnipeg to raise her one and only daughter, Melonie.

Life wasn’t always easy, she was a single mom who explored different careers until she dedicated the remainder of her working years at Superstore. Darlene made friends easily and quickly bonded with a wonderful group of soul sisters that supported each other till the end of her days. These were her people, but truthfully, wherever she went she developed strong lasting relationships and was adored by many. Darlene was so proud to buy her home on Regal where she and Melonie made a life for themselves. Her home was a pit stop for all her friends and family.

Darlene was a free spirit who colored outside of the lines. She was fearless, paved her own way and lived life with passion. If her heart was the gauge of her lifespan, it would have kept beating forever. She had a passion for travel and lived the life of her dreams, a true inspiration to all. Darlene also loved her flower gardens. Her back yard was her therapy and first thing in the morning she could be found with a coffee in hand and watering can in the other, chatting with the birds and trees. Music was always her motivation she loved a good live band. Her style in music was very eclectic.

She travelled many winters with friends throughout Mexico. The weeks would turn to months and then eventually she would spend winters in what she considered her happy place, Puerto Vallarta. Darlene volunteered at the school and assisted teaching the local children. She found her purpose giving back to the country she loved so much. She was the tour guide for friends and family of all ages who travelled to PV, no party was too big or small.  She knew all the best places, restaurants, bars, hair salons and dentists. She supported the locals who fed their families that sold treasures on the beach or tiny shops, she sure had a colourful dress and jewelry collection to show for it. Her silver bling became a display of memories and love.

Darlene eventually met her forever guy, Daryl and spent 12 loving years together. They would winter in PV and share some time over the summer in Winnipeg or Seattle where Daryl is from. Together they built a life divided by miles but close at heart.

Darlene’s first battle with cancer was at the age of 34. She was proudly in remission after having had surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. She fought with all her might to show cancer it had messed with the wrong girl. It was therapeutic for her to take the following years supporting, visiting, and soothing anyone with health issues. Her empathy and compassion for others was healing for the soul. 

After decades, she faced her second round of cancer with the same attitude; strong, powerful, and positive.  She put on a brave face, named her wigs, and rallied a huge support team who cheered her on.

She shared her journey on Facebook and wrote her story as she tackled life head on. Like a true warrior she never complained, gave up hope or let cancer define her life.  We could all learn by example on choosing our attitude, as she did hers.

Remember me when you help a friend

Remember me when you smell a flower

Remember me when your toes hit the sand

Remember me when you smile at a stranger

Remember me when you taste carrot cake

Remember me when you cheers at happy hour

Remember me when you hug a loved one

Remember me when you watch the sunset

The family would like to thank all the doctors and staff at Riverview Health Centre and St. Boniface Hospital for their exceptional care. And, a special thank you to Nick, mom's nurse, who was there from the beginning and always made sure she had the earliest appointments. 

In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to Riverview Health Centre or a charity of one’s choice. 

A celebration of life to follow.

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