April 28, 1930 – February 26, 2025
It is with sorrow and gratitude for a life well lived that we share the peaceful passing of Darciene Kish (nee Evans) on February 26, 2025 at her home in Guelph, ON, at the age of 94.
Darciene was a loving and supportive parent to her children Jeff Kish (Donna Kish), Jocelyn Kish, and Mary-Ellen Kish (Gwen Chapman), nana to Willow Kish and Ben Chapman-Kish, and big sister to Sharon Gascoigne of Thunder Bay. She is also remembered fondly by numerous nieces and nephews and other extended family. Darciene was predeceased by her husband of 70 years, Harold Kish in June 2024, as well as grandson Corry Horth and sister Myrna Lou Kristensen.
Darciene was born April 28, 1930 in Sudbury ON to Glenelva and Cecil Evans. She grew up in Northern Ontario, spending her early years in Central Patricia before her family moved to Virginiatown. Darciene was an excellent student, attending high school at Kirkland Lake. After completing Grade 13, she joined her parents who had moved to Yellowknife. She attended business school in Edmonton and then returned to Yellowknife. It was there that she met Harold Kish, the love of her life. When Darciene wanted to move to Fort William where her Evans and McDonald family roots were, Harold followed her. They were married in Wesley United Church, Fort William, January 13, 1954.
Darciene and Harold raised their three children and led active lives in Thunder Bay. Darciene loved being outdoors, cross-country skiing, sailing, canoeing, square dancing, walking, and spending summers at the Kish ‘camp’ on Shebandowan Lake.
Darciene volunteered with the Girl Guides for many years as leader and commissioner at the local, district and provincial levels. She was also involved with Wesley United Church, including the UCW (United Church Women). She was an excellent bridge player and knitter and enjoyed cooking and entertaining. Darciene and Harold loved adventure and travelled the world extensively together.
Darciene was a woman business owner before her time, co-owning Prismatic Photo photofinishing business in Thunder Bay from the late 1960s.
After enjoying their life and wide circle of friends and family in Thunder Bay for over 40 years, Darciene and Harold moved to Southern Ontario. For the past 25 years, they enjoyed the community and friendships while living in the Village by the Arboretum in Guelph.
Heartfelt thanks to Shirley Melbourne who has provided excellent in-home nursing care for the past three years, as well as to Shannon Wood and other staff from Bayshore Health Care.
In lieu of flowers, for those wishing, memorial donations can be made to the Alzheimer Society of Canada or a charity of your choice. The family appreciates your love and support and will be honouring Darciene privately.