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Darren Kozak

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DARREN KOZAK

1970 – 2026

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of our beloved son on June 8, 2026. Darren was born, a Centennial baby, on August 25, 1970. 


He attended St. Alphonsus School and was a proud student at St. Paul’s High School, where he obtained an award for best minor role in drama. He worked at the Concert Hall as an assistant in the refreshment area while attending high school at St. Paul. 


Darren was into sports as a child, but his first love was hockey and he was awarded a medal and his name put in the Esso Hall of Fame for being the most valuable player in the Midget All Star game. This gave him great pride. 


Darren excelled as a writer and self-taught guitarist and singer. He later worked in the media as a writer and singer in commercials, always dreaming of becoming a rock star.


He loved to fish and canoe into the wilderness, which gave him a sense of peace. 


As a volunteer with the Red Cross, he assisted hundreds of wildfire victims. 


He loved to cook and was a master in the kitchen. His joy was watching cooking shows and said this was therapeutic for him. 


A special thanks to Captain Will and Paul, who remained faithful friends every day. 


Darren is survived by his parents, Borys and Frances; and his numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. He is predeceased by his little sister, Laura, who passed away in 1980. 


We will all miss your big smile and humor, Darren. 


A private Celebration of Life is being held on August 20, 2026. 


ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

1833 Portage Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

Memories, Stories and Condolences

 

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Tara Worthing

September 8, 2026 at 8:17 PM

I've known Darren for 7 years coming this october and although our friendship was long distance for most of that (I live in Alberta), a video call from Darren always brightened my day. He was always kind and a true friend. He always said such encouraging and positive things that made me feel I had a friend at times when I had very few.

 

I wish I had gotten to spend more time with him because he always made me laugh. My husband is a musician and sometimes the two of them would talk for over an hour about music and bands and equipment.

 

Darren you will be truly missed. My deepest condolences to Borys and Frances. I don't know you but Darren was always talking about you. He told me about your lives and your accomplishments and how much he loved and respected you. He was your biggest fan. Wishing you all some peace as you navigate this difficult time.

 

Darren was my true friend and even though I am just a small town Alberta girl he made me feel like a superstar.

Captain Will Bossence

September 2, 2026 at 12:25 PM

Brother and a true best friend, my days will not be the same without you. The laughter, conversations, and arguments, which I always WON. If you were here with me right now, I know it would make you smile as you stood up to argue. You were one of a kind and will never be replaced, and know you carry a special place in my heart. You exhibited everything a person could ask for in a best friend. See you, brother!

Paul Oleynick

August 21, 2026 at 6:00 PM

brother and best friend Darren. I can't believe you're gone. Nothing will fill this void in my life. My deepest condolences to Mr. and Mrs. Kozak.

John Emslie

August 15, 2026 at 6:34 AM

Saddened to hear that Darren is gone. My deepest condolences to his family whom I know he loved dearly.

I was friends with Darren at St. Paul's High School. Over the years, we spoke over the phone but did not reconnect. I didn't realize in time how short life could be.

Darren was a complete original, a pure dreamer with the pure uncompromising heart of a dreamer. A natural comedian and actor, he was performer out of the shere energy of his personality. True to his own spirit, he was a spirit out of place.

For whatever troubles he knew later in life, to me, he will always be that same mischievous, 17-year-old boy, smirking; bursting with laughter. It was impossible not to laugh being around him. There was no one like Darren Kozak. I will carry the regret of neglecting to see him again. I will miss him and think of him always.

Patricia and Byron Elliott

August 11, 2026 at 6:42 PM

Borys and Frances; Thankyou for sharing Darren with us, in the pictoral memories that indeed speak a thousand words. May these wonderful memories of Darren help ease your pain. Peace be with you,

Michelle Vanek

August 10, 2026 at 12:22 PM

I remember Darren from St. Als

So sorry to hear of his passing

 

 

Jocelyn (Jo) Elliott

August 9, 2026 at 3:55 PM

Kozie and Frances,

My deepest sympathies to you and your family. I hope the memories of Darren ease your heartbreak and give you some comfort . He is at peace.

Heidi Bock

August 8, 2026 at 10:55 PM

So sorry to hear this, dear Koz and Frances.

May you find comfort in the many memories of your dear Darren.

Elaine Knight

August 8, 2026 at 4:31 PM

Fran and Borys, so sorry to learn of Darren's passing.

Remembering all the fun times around your pool when our kids were little. Our deepest condolences.

Love and hugs. Elaine, Tara and Trina

Dale Koblanski

August 8, 2026 at 2:35 PM

My Deepest Condolances to You both Fran and Borys. Darren was One-of-kind and such a nice guy. Darren and I spoke on and off the last few years, he always mentioned How Much He Loved His Mom and Dad. You are Free now D-- fly far and wide ^i^

Darlene Doblee (Stronski)

August 8, 2026 at 1:54 PM

Borys, my deep condolences to you and your family on the loss of Darren. Your beautiful tribute showed your love for a wonderful, kind and talented man. My thoughts are with you all.

Donna Kowal

August 8, 2026 at 11:16 AM

Very sorry to hear of Darren's passing. My heart goes out to you.

 

Judy Daniels

August 8, 2026 at 9:54 AM

Kozie, I am so sorry to learn of Darren's passing. My deepest condolences to you, Frances and family.

Tony and Cathy Mariani

August 8, 2026 at 9:43 AM

Kozie,, I am deeply sorry for Darren's passing. Condolences to you and Frances and your familiy.

Louisa Newlands

August 7, 2026 at 10:54 PM

Darren we can't believe you left us. we have so many good memories of you babysitting Claire when you were a teenager. Our sincere condolences Borys, Frances and family.

Renee Houde (Roberts)

August 7, 2026 at 1:18 PM

I am so sorry for your devastating loss. Darren was a special part of our family for several years and we have wonderful memories of time spent with him. His wit and sense of humour was razor sharp and had us laughing a good deal of the time.

Frances and Borys, you were a second family to me and I value the time we spent together.

Sending love and comfort to you in your time of sorrow.

 

Tick

August 7, 2026 at 10:30 AM

Our thoughts and prayers are with you Boyd, and the Kozak Family. As I did not know Darren that well, I felt I did from the great stories Boyd shared. A wonderful person who loved to share all his talent with people he loved.

Carole patterson

August 6, 2026 at 7:46 PM

Darren we have lots of memories of you. You were such a character met you yrs ago. I still remember you jumping off the roof of your moms house into the pool. I think you were trying to impress my daughter Shelley. every time I bumped into you I got such a big hug .

you have left this world to rest in peace you will always be in our hearts we have so many memories. Sorry we just never made it for that day of fishing..one thing I know is you always put a smile on everybody's face. Watch over your mom she is having a tough time missing you

love Carole and Shelley patterson

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