Mr. Daryl Hillman passed away at the Innisfail Health Care Centre on October 10, 2022 at the age of 71 years. Daryl was always a man of vision – his analytical mind was apparent from the time he was a kid. He could come up with unique ways of seeing things and solving problems even before he was a teen, helping his parents to improve the finances of the farm. And, at the same time, Daryl as a young lad was developing a love of music. He started to learn guitar in school around Grade 6 and spent a lot of time in his teenage years playing guitar and singing in his room. By the time he was in high school, Daryl was playing in a band and performing at the bars in Red Deer. Daryl, with Arlene by his side, grew his analytical mind into a business.
He was in Real Estate for almost fifty years. His innovation and creativity meant that he would sometimes call Arlene and say “we need to talk”, and the next thing they knew, his vision was in motion and the family was moving – over a dozen moves over the years. Daryl’s opinions and ideas were respected in business and personal circles. He was a fantastic mentor to all those who worked with him. Daryl took the time to share his wealth of knowledge and be available. People also noticed that he was able to pull the good out of any situation. Daryl was a man of integrity who would go above and beyond to ensure that things were done right. Daryl nurtured his love of music, which continued throughout his entire life. He was the lead singer and guitarist for the band Easy Street for twenty-seven years. In the early days, his earnings from the band made the mortgage payments. In later years, singing and guitar playing around the campfire were some of the best memories of family and friends. On his final day, when family were gathered round him, Daryl’s grandkids recalled happy memories of singing “Navajo Rug” and “Ring of Fire” with Grandpa around the fire. In the midst of the busy-ness of life, Arlene was sometimes able to remind Daryl to enjoy life. They had many happy adventures around the world, whether it was camping at South Fork, or cruising in Asia, as well as seeing Elvis Presley live. These two kids from the farm had an amazing life of adventure. Daryl will be remembered as an inspiration and trailblazer. He always had something percolating in his mind and plans for the future. He was still in business meetings two days before he passed, because he loved it all so much and didn’t want to let go. We are so sad that his plans got cut short. We miss him terribly already. And, in our grief, we also know that Daryl would see the bigger picture, adapt and know what gifts can come from adversity. He would encourage us to keep going, support each other and adjust. Daryl will be lovingly remembered by wife, Arlene of fifty years, his daughter, Cassandra, his son Kirk (Paula), and his six grandchildren, Anika, Levi, Genna, Scotia, Grace and Isaac. He will also be lovingly be remembered by his brother Randy (Shirley), his brother Dwayne, his brother in law Larrie (Mary) as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Daryl was predeceased by his parents, Elmer and Vi, and his sister Judy Davis.
A Memorial Coffee will be held at the Innisfail Library on Monday, October 24, 2022 from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. If desired, Memorial Donations may be made to the Lending Cupboard, #1 7803 – 50 Ave. Red Deer, Alberta T4P 1M8. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.heartlandfuneralservices.com. Arrangements in care of: Heartland Funeral Services Ltd., 4415 – 49 Street, Innisfail, Alberta. Phone: 403.227.0006

• Date : 2022-10-21
• Location : www.ParklandFuneralHome.com & www.HeartlandFuneralServices.com