Darrell Shelswell, 71, of Desbarats, Ontario, passed away surrounded by family on June 12, 2026, at Sault Area Hospital.
He was born on May 11, 1955, to Harold Shelswell and Betty Shelswell in Orillia, Ontario and was the second oldest son within a large farming family of seven siblings.
Darrell was the first in his family to go to University, graduating from the University of Ottawa in 1978 and soon became a Professional Engineer of Ontario. He dedicated most of his career to the pulp and paper industry across various Northern Ontario towns including Smooth Rock Falls, Kapuskasing and at St. Mary’s Paper in Sault Ste. Marie.
He married Elsa Smith in 1977 and together they had two children, Ian and Tamara.
Darrell was a caring husband, a devoted father, and a great friend to many. There was nothing he wouldn’t do to support his family and friends over the years. He had a generous spirit and loved to joke around. An avid golfer and angler throughout his life, he returned to farming after retirement and always had a soft spot for Rum and Raisin ice cream.
As a mechanical engineer by profession, Darrell enjoyed spending time at home trying to fix things that may or may not have been broken by him just so he could have something to work on…we’ll give him the benefit of the doubt here and will fondly remember his efforts. He will be greatly missed.
Darrell is survived by his wife Elsa of 49 years; their son and daughter; three grandchildren-Scarlett, Emerson and Addy; five siblings-Carol (John), Donna (Pete), Jeff (Maria), Joanne (Wayne) and Sandra (Barry); as well as six siblings-in-law-Elizabeth, Penny (late Mel), Sally (Gerald), Malcolm (Maribeth), John (Surb) and Pat (Randy). Darrell also shared love with many nieces and nephews who adored him.
He was preceded in death by his parents; older brother Brad (Ruth); younger sister Janice (Dave); along with brother-in-law Peter (Anita).
We would like to thank Dr. Haapala and staff at Huron Shores Family Health Team in Bruce Mines for their exceptional care over the years.
A funeral service will take place at Calvary Baptist Church (40 Lake Huron Dr.) in Desbarats, Ontario on Saturday, June 27, 2026. Visitation is set for 1:00 p. m. to 2:00 p. m., followed by the service with light refreshments afterward. A private celebration of life will follow with close family members.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations (payable by cheque or online) to the Heart & Stroke Foundation, Canadian Mental Health Association, Diabetes Canada or Calvary Baptist Church in Desbarats. Arrangements are entrusted to Arthur Funeral Home – Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington Street East, 705-759-2522). Fond memories can be shared online at www. arthurfuneralhome. com for the family.
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