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Darren Marrese

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RONALD (DARREN) MARRESE

April 11, 1971 – May 15, 2026

It is with great sadness that the family announces the sudden passing of Darren Marrese on Friday, May 15, 2026, at the age of 55.


Darren is survived by his wife, Leanne; daughters, Kelsey (Travis) and Elizabeth; his parents, Duncan and Jean; his brother, Rob (Rebecca); and his sister, Shannon. Also mourning his loss are his uncles and aunts, Ron & Barb Marrese, Marlyne Marrese, and Dennis & Rosalie Goodale; his sisters-in-law, Dawn Robertson (Jason) and Susan Robertson (Jamie); and his mother-in-law, Gillian Robertson. Darren also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will miss him greatly.


Darren was predeceased by his grandparents, Samuel & Florence Marrese and Percival & Margaret Goodale; as well as his cousin, Jon Marrese.


Darren was born on April 11, 1971, in Winnipeg, Manitoba. He grew up in both the Westwood and Charleswood areas of Winnipeg, with a brief move to Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. He graduated from Shaftesbury High School in 1989. After briefly attending the University of Manitoba, he went on to study at Red River College, graduating from the Creative Communications program in 2000.


Anyone who knew Darren would remember his love of Star Wars. Through this passion, he met one of his longtime friends, Christo Mavroudis. Over the years, he amassed an impressive collection of toys and comic books dedicated to Star Wars, G.I. Joe, Batman, The Lord of the Rings, and many others. Darren loved Batman so much that he even ordered himself a custom-made suit. He put it to good use by attending birthday parties, school visits, the Santa Claus Parade, and many charity events. During the pandemic, he made socially distanced visits to families to put smiles on children’s faces.


Darren also had a deep love of animals, from budgies to cats and dogs. This brings us to Lou, his best buddy for almost 18 years. They were inseparable. Many evenings were spent cuddling on the couch together, and many long walks and runs were taken in the field behind the house. Lou also accompanied Darren to many of the Batman events he participated in.


A celebration of Darren’s life will take place at a later date.


In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba, or to any local animal rescue or rehabilitation centre.


ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

1833 Portage Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

Memories, Stories and Condolences

 

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Candice Snider

May 26, 2026 at 11:30 AM

Darren and I went to CreComm together. We kept in touch afterwards, but especially after my own children were born when I realized how challenging it must have been to be raising a child while in that program (I even remember Darren bringing Kelsey to school a few times). One day I posted on Facebook about some bullying one of my kids was enduring, and Darren was the first to reach out to offer support and advice. We even talked about launching some kind of not-for-profit organization around bullying. When my son had his 5th birthday, Darren offered to don his Batman costume and join the kids—and refused to accept payment. Not only did he entertain, but he spoke to the kids about the importance of kindness and compassion. My kids grew up believing that Batman was real, and that he lived right here in Winnipeg. They thought I was the coolest mom ever because Batman was my friend. Darren, you will be very missed by so many. Like others, I’m heartbroken—you left us far too soon. Rest in peace, bud. My most heartfelt condolences to his family.

Mike Miguez

May 25, 2026 at 2:38 PM

Much like Jason Rosin I will be forever thankful to Darren for all the assistance and expert direction he gave me helping create a number of important, personal, video projects over the years. We first met as CreComm classmates (RRCC) and our friendship/association extended beyond our school years. Always outgoing, ready to lend a hand, good storyteller, along with his very creative mind, are the main traits which will remain in my mind.

And yes, his Star Wars library/collection was legendary.!!!!!

My sincere heartfelt thoughts go out to Darren`s immediate and extended family members.

Rest peacefully fellow CreCommer!!!!!!!

Colleen Hourie

May 25, 2026 at 1:17 PM

My favourite memory of Darren was how articulate his writing was. We used to bike on our ten speeds to drop the letters to one another, waiting in anticipation to check the mailbox and see if there was another letter waiting. That was until he got his Pinto. Later on in years, we would occationally walk the neighborhood with Lou and talk about our life's moments. Then watching the kids faces when I would drive him to one of his curbside visits as batman during covid. I am grateful for our friendship over the years. I will miss you Darren.

Stacy Marinelli

May 24, 2026 at 3:06 PM

I worked with Darren at Sorrentos and we had a blast. I affectionately referred to him as "Durwood" from bewitched. My condolesence to the entire family my heart goes out to you. He is gone far too soon.

Chad Coopman

May 24, 2026 at 2:40 PM

Darren with collar up back in the day. I remember riding bikes , tobogganing at Smithdale Hill, playing hockey and trick or treating as young kids . I looked up to Darren and remember his love for Heavy Metal, Star Wars. The Winnipeg Batman and his trusty sidekick Lou , will be forever remembered as The Good Guys.

Todd Muys

May 23, 2026 at 11:22 PM

Darren,

We had a lot of good times together and my son Liam, who's now 18, has never forgotten your amazing entrance to his birthday party at Sorrento's , dressed as Batman! R.I.P, my friend

Todd & Liam Muys

Jason Rosin

May 23, 2026 at 9:24 PM

I'll miss you man. We went through Cre Comm together - all the late nights, camaraderie and nights at "the office" are times I'll never forget. Darren also gave me a freelance gig in between jobs that I will forever be thankful for.

 

Oh yeah - that Star Wars collection is legendary! And lastly, he came to my sons 6th birthday party as Batman, which was a big hit for all the boys.

 

Rest in peace and to his family - take care and be well during this difficult time. ❤️

Shannon Marrese

May 23, 2026 at 8:54 PM

My poor brother. He is finally at peace now. My heart is broken. And I am listening to Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, old Metallica. He will be forever in our hearts.

Bill B (Co-worker at TRU)

May 23, 2026 at 7:25 PM

I worked with Darren in retail at TRU in the 1990's. I also worked with Rob and met Leanne on numerous occasions while working at TRU. I lost touch with Darren but I do have a selfie of myself and the mysterious Dark Knight of Winnipeg!

 

My condolences to all of Darren's family for the loss. Darren was a very genuine person and I will always remember him for that!

Neufeld Family

May 23, 2026 at 10:43 AM

Sincere condolences to Kelsey and her family.

Alex Jean

May 22, 2026 at 3:20 PM

I miss you Darren

Conner Joulbert

May 22, 2026 at 3:09 PM

I miss you darren

 

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