It is with great sadness, that we announce the death of Daren (Darren) Vander Samson at the age of 58 years old from Little Anse, Nova Scotia, living in Fort McMurray, Alberta.

Daren passed away at the U of A hospital in Edmonton, surrounded by the love and respect of his family. Daren was the son of Vander and Alvina Samson (nee Samson).

Daren leaves his wife /caregiver, Jacqueline (Bullen), his two precious daughters, Gabrielle (Kourtney), Yellowknife, NWT; Claudelle (Louis), Moncton, NB and his Goddaughter Taylor Miller, to mourn his death.

His siblings: Ronnie (Genny – Godmother), Gerrard (Mary Helen), Darlene (Harvey), Colleen (Craig); JoAnn (Eric). He is also leaving behind numerous nieces and nephews.

As well he was predeceased by his brother Donald (Rose), his brother Douglas (Kaye), brother-in-law Derrick, nephew Shane and Godfather Wilfred.

Daren was a truck driver by trade, and he loved his work tremendously. He met numerous people from around the Country on his travels. Many friendships were formed and they became like family for him.

He also enjoyed sharing his cooking with others. Trying new flavours brought him lots of joy. Living away from our hometown, he was amazingly blessed with a wonderful support system during his six-year medical battle. The strength and stubbornness he showed was nothing short of a miracle. Unfortunately, his body was done, and it was time to let him go and have peace.

Our girls and I would like to send a special thanks to all medical professionals that took great care of him throughout this process.

Now that you have passed, may your favourite songs play on repeat and may your food always be warm. May the highway take you to wherever you need to go!

A celebration of life will be held at 187 Mackenzie Boulevard in Fort McMurray on Saturday, May 23, 2026, from 1 pm to 4 pm. Also, a celebration of life will be held in

Little Anse, Nova Scotia later in the summer or fall of 2026 with details to follow at a future date.

Cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation, nor funeral at the request of the family.

The family encourages those close to Daren to attend his celebrations to share memories of their time together.