Darren Matthew Tienkamp
May 16, 1991 ~ March 24, 2016
With broken hearts we announce the passing of our beloved son, stepbrother, uncle, nephew, cousin and friend, Darren Tienkamp.
Darren passed away after a tragic accident on March 24, 2016 at the age of 24 years. Darren was born in Fernie, BC. He spent his first three years in Elkford, BC, having the time of his life. When his parents moved to Valleyview, AB, he quickly adapted to farm life and was a ready little helper - chasing cows, feeding calves and carrying wood. He loved his bunnies, chickens, kittens, and especially his faithful friend, Jake. He and his dog were constant companions.
Darren was a bright, quick learner and excelled in his home-school studies. In Grade 10 he attended Hillside High until he dropped out prior to graduation. Darren worked at a foundry in Lethbridge, AB, did pipelining in Northern Alberta, and worked in the oilfield industry for a time. His real passion was to become a counsellor for teens with addictions, having gone through some troubled years himself.
To that end, Darren had started upgrading to finish Grade 12 in expectation of entering college this fall.
Darren will always be remembered for his incredible humour, his smile, and his kind, loving heart.
He will be forever missed by his father Dennis Tienkamp of Valleyview, AB; his mother Valorie Tienkamp of Creston, BC; stepbrothers Warren (Danna) of Lethbridge, AB, and Gregory (Jacquie) of Valleyview, AB; stepsisters Charmaine of Pincher Creek, AB and Michelle of Valleyview, AB; nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, cousins and dear friends.
A Celebration of Darren’s Life was held on Saturday, April 2, at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Valleyview, AB, with friend Rev. Sheldon Strydhorst officiating.
We wish to thank all those who have offered their prayers and support as we deal with this tremendous loss.