Free soul, musician, artist
Darren Stouwie was the heart of the Stouwie family, a source of laughter and honesty that resonated deeply with everyone he knew. His younger sister, Sydney, fondly remembers how Darren could effortlessly lift spirits, turning moments of sadness into laughter-filled memories. She recalls his uncanny ability to lighten any mood, even joking that Darren could make a funeral a surprisingly joyful occasion. Darren’s knack for comedy was matched by his honesty; he was the person you could count on for an unfiltered opinion, whether it was about your outfit or any other matter.
Art was Darren’s passion and refuge. By the age of 15, he had mastered the harmonica, and by 16, he was skillfully playing the guitar he taught himself. Painting and drawing were also integral to his creative expression. Darren poured his soul into his art, dreaming of sharing his creations with the world.
As the middle child in a large family, Darren found his place alongside his siblings. He shared a mischievous bond with his sister Brittany, his partner in household antics and loyal ally. His younger siblings, Sydney, and Jonah, looked up to him as the best big brother. He taught them magic tricks that they could show their friends, and even let them use the occasional curse word when playing video games under his watchful eye. Darren was deeply cherished by his parents, Karren Loomis and Barry Stouwie, as well as his extended family, including his stepmother Michelle Yoder and his father’s wife, Jolene Ihle-Oxley-Stouwie.
While Darren never married, Sara O’Tool held a special place in his heart. They once shared a life together until his battle with addiction strained their relationship irreparably. Darren’s struggle with addiction spanned the last five years of his life, starting with pain medication and escalating to heroin. Despite periods of hope, including completing a treatment program and anticipating a job interview, Darren tragically lost his life after an evening with others who shared his addiction.
In the midst of his battle, Darren had a poignant moment with Sydney, sharing a heartfelt conversation where he asked her to promise never to use drugs. This promise became Sydney’s steadfast commitment, honoring Darren’s memory by living a substance-free life and advocating for addiction awareness and support. She commemorates Darren annually, both on his day of birth and death. She proudly displays his artwork and handwriting in a tattoo and keeps his beloved guitar in her room as a daily tribute. Sydney carries overdose reversal drugs in her car, prepared to help others in need, and actively supports treatment centers to raise awareness and reduce the stigma associated with substance abuse disorder.
Darren Stouwie’s legacy lives on through Sydney’s advocacy and the memories cherished by his family. His artistic talent, humor, and unwavering honesty continue to inspire those who knew him, ensuring that his impact on their lives remains enduring and profound.
Darren’s younger sister, Sydney Stouwie, provided the information for this narrative.
September 3, 1992–June 5, 2016-Age 23
Portrait Artist: Jeremy Hebbel
Narrative Writer: Justin Teague
