Darrell Gilks

Darrell Gilks, 76, passed away peacefully after a long battle with cancer with his family by his side on May 8, 2025. Darrell was born in Fredrickton, New Brunswick Canada on July 28, 1948. He was proceeded in death by his father Lyman Gilks and mother Joyce Gilks (Hovey). Darrell is survived by his wife Cindy; daughter Michelle, son in law Brad; granddaughter Sophie all from California; son Brian from Telluride; brother Gary Gilks (Karen Ann); sister Sharon Counsil (Noel) all in Ontario, Canada, and brother Les Gilks in Alberta, Canada as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

His father was sent to Colorado Springs to work at NORAD in 1965. Darrell went to High School there in Colorado Springs and met his future wife, Cindy Burnett. They went together for three years and got married in 1969. They would have been married 56 yrs this July. They moved back to Canada but only stayed for six months. He often said that Canada was beautiful but that Colorado was God’s country. They moved back to Colorado Springs and stayed for three years and then to Oklahoma City for five years. They moved to Montrose where they have been for 47 yrs. Darrell worked in construction and in 1983 stared a Guide and Outfitting Business and had that for over 40 years. Between hunting seasons he built homes and sub-divided and was in real estate and appraisals.

Darrell had an engaging personality with a huge laugh and smile. He didn’t know a stranger and made friends everywhere he went. He was known for his story telling and for his teasing. He loved to hunt and fish and loved being in the mountains. He loved to spend time with his friends and family.

There will be a service at the Nazarene Church on Wednesday, May 14th at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to Hope West Hospice 725 South 4th Street, Montrose Co 81401