Darren Robert Tait Obituary in Grande Prairie at Oliver's Funeral Home & Crematorium

Obituaries

Darren Robert Tait

July 05, 1965 - December 07, 2021

Obituary For Darren Robert Tait

Darren Robert Tait resident of Grande Prairie, AB passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, December 7, 2021, at the Grande Prairie Regional Hospital, at the age of 56 years.

Darren was born on July 5, 1965. He was born and raised in Grande Prairie, growing up as the youngest and as the only boy in the family of six. He was a wicked little hockey player, which meant his family endured many cold arenas watching his games. His true passion was to be out at the family cabin “Tait’s Timbers” surrounded by family, friends, and good times.

He found his true calling when he first sat on a dirt bike. Throughout his teenage years, he became totally focused on the sport of motocross, this is where he started his craft as a Parts Pro. Darren attended the Fairview Regional College where he obtained his Journeyman Parts certificate in 1987. From there he refined his craft and worked at many local dealerships, sharing his passion for dirt bikes and motocross. In the late 90’s Darren was an integral part of bringing back the sport of motocross to the Grande Prairie region and Rock Valley Raceway was born.

During this time, Darren found another love in his life and was married in 1994. Together they raised two children: Riley and Kaylee. Being with his young family was the best years of his life. He enjoyed travelling out to their BC properties and being in nature. The apple didn’t fall far from the tree with his son Riley who was riding a dirt bike by the age of 3. We were probably the only family in town with a mini dirt bike track that encompassed the front and backyard. Darren loved to cook and so does Riley, together they won a local Iron Chef competition and proceeded to Edmonton taking home 2nd place. They were literally Tornado Taits in the kitchen. Of course, he left the same impression on his daughter, Kaylee, who can maneuver any off-road vehicle, including dirt bikes. Kaylee likes a different type of horsepower and found her equivalent passion in the equestrian world. This was a big transition for Darren, not to mention his huge fear of horses that he had to overcome. He supported her through many horse shows and was proud of himself for being able to hold her horses. Of course, motocross was always there, he got back into the racing in his 30’s and brought home a Regional 30+ Championship. Darren always wanted to share his knowledge and support. He mentored and supported a local rider all the way up to a National Motocross level.

Darren had a natural ability to relate with anyone on a personal level, and he will be sadly missed by everyone he connected with. Darren always had a love for music, and we know he is singing, dancing and of course, riding to the rhythm of life. He will be greatly missed by his children Riley and Kaylee; mother Violet; sisters: Gail (Ross), Diane (Larry) and Colleen (Wally); as well as many nieces and nephews.

Darren was predeceased by his father Robert “Bob” Tait.

A memorial service will be held with his close friends and family on July 5, 2022. Further details to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Grande Prairie Motocross Association (e-transfer gpmxa@hotmail.com).

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Condolences

December 12, 2021

Brad Stokke

I'm very sorry to hear the passing of Darren, my condolences go out to the family. We raced motocross together in the early 80's, Darren was a talented rider and a fierce competitor, even though things could get a little crazy at times during competition we had a great friendship on and off the track. I hope the bikes and tracks are awesome up there buddy. Rest In Peace, Brad Stokke
December 11, 2021

Loretta Juneau

We have lost another Angel on earth My deepest condolences to Riley & Kaylee & their family & friends. Darren will be deeply missed by all ; until we meet again my friend xo RIP
December 11, 2021

Lana Ragan

I knew Darren in high school. He was always the life of the parties!! His smile and laughter could not be forgotten. And some of the antics he used to do would make most people blush, lol !! I have very fond memories of him, and I'm so sorry for your loss, it must leave a big hole in your hearts, but I believe there's a better place than this world, and I think he'd be doing what he loves and keep being the extraordinary person that he was. God bless you in this difficult time. All my best. Warmest Regards, Lana Ragan
December 11, 2021

Scott Wallace

My condolences to you and your family. I grew up with Darren in Grande Prairie. My heart goes out to you.
December 10, 2021

Sheryle chase

Our thoughts are with you all during this difficult time❤️Darrin was such a helpful guy around our neighborhood with a great sense of humour He had a passion for motorcycle racing which he passed on to our kids especially Ashley. Riley and her would often go to the motorcross with Darren Hold on to the memories as they never go away Sheryle Ryan Ashley chase
December 10, 2021

Dale Biendarra

I worked with Darren at countryside. Many laughs and shared knowledge over the years. Shocked by the news. Condolences to the family. Dale
December 10, 2021

Sheldon Z

My condolences, known Darren for many years as a customer and fellow parts slinger. His smile and laugh will always be missed ✨Sheldon Z
December 10, 2021

Kim McGlynn

Gone way too soon! We spent more than 14 years in the motocross world and Darren was there for every one of them. Our kids - Scott, Kyle, Justin and Larissa all saw him as a mentor. Darren always went the extra mile for us and this was especially true for Kyle's rise through the ranks to the KTM national team. From parts, repairs, to riding advice he was always our go to person. We are so very sorry to hear of Darren's passing and our thoughts go out to the family he leaves behind. Love from the McGlynn's
December 10, 2021

Mark Rodacker

Darren worked for Janet and Ifor many years at Countryside Motor Sports. To say he was the driving factor in Countryside doing well in the motocross sport would be an understatement. He was my friend as much as he was my employee. We spent many hours together just talking about our lives past, present and our futures at the time. Darren ended up buying that dealership from me in the end and even though that may not have lasted we always felt that we could not have passed it on to a better person. My heart is broken and I will miss him dearly. Gods speed my good friend. Mark
December 10, 2021

Chantel James

My late husband Blair James always went to country side to get parts from Darren in his prime raving days or for motocross advice. He would pop by his place if he needed help with his dirt bikes. Hopefully Blair and Darren are ripping up the tracks in heaven 💜 Sending much love and hugs Chantel James

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