Daryl Derrick Coward
September 10th, 1948 – September 23rd, 2025
It is with deep sorrow and profound gratitude for a life well lived that we announce the passing of Daryl Derrick Coward of Drinkwater, Saskatchewan, on Tuesday, September 23rd 2025, at the age of 77 years.
Born on September 10th, 1948, Daryl was a proud farmer whose roots ran deep in the soil of Drinkwater, SK. He spent his life cultivating not only crops, but community — always ready with a wave from the tractor or a helping hand in times of need. His work ethic was matched only by his generosity and quiet wisdom.
Daryl was a dedicated Shriner and Mason, committed to service and fellowship. His involvement brought joy and support to countless lives, and he cherished the camaraderie and purpose it gave him.
Perhaps most memorably, Daryl found joy behind the wheel of a yellow school bus. For decades, he safely drove two generations of students to and from school, greeting each child with warmth and a twinkle in his eye. He knew every name, every story, and every milestone — and they knew they were loved. His bus wasn’t just a ride; it was a place of laughter, comfort, and connection.
Daryl leaves behind a legacy of kindness, loyalty, and deep love for his family.
He was predeceased by his parents, Derrick William and Evelyn May Coward; and granddaughter, Cortney. Left to mourn are Daryl’s wife of 44 years, Janice (née: Waller); son, Bill (Charlene) Hedin and their children Abigayle and Karlee; daughter, Carla (Ron) Delaurier and children: Sharon (Cam) Church and their children Eric, Ainsley, and Norah, Nicole (Craig) Moore and their children Adalie and Olivia, and Garret (Nhoa) Delaurier; son, Don Hedin and children: Brianna (Steven) Hedin and their son Oliver, Danielle Hedin, Christopher Hedin, and Andrew Hedin; son, Derrick (Patricia) Coward and children: Tasia, Sophia, Logan, Taylor, and Haley; son, David (Nicole) Coward and children Mason, Connor, and Ryan; sister, Valerie (Doug) Forman and children: Heather, Holly, and Crystal; and brother, Tom (Laura-Lee) Coward and their son Marc.
Daryl’s favourite job was that of grandpa and great-grandpa, having a little one climb on his lap and finish his supper, playing Uno by the hour, or trying to stay awake during the many recitals he attended; he loved every minute. Watching the kids playing hockey, volleyball, basketball, or just playing near him, brought him joy.
He will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him — family, friends, neighbors, and the many students whose lives he touched.
A very special mention is extended to Margaret Huber for her continued love and care. We appreciate all that you have done and who you are to us.
The Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, September 27th, 2025 at 1:30 p.m. at Moose Jaw Funeral Home. Reverend Doug Shepherd will officiate and interment will take place at Fairview Cemetery in Drinkwater, SK. Those not able to attend may view the service by going to www.moosejawfuneralhome.com/webcast/. As an expression of sympathy, donations in Daryl’s name may be made to the Shriners Hospital for Sick Children c/o Moose Jaw Shrine Club, 1767 Main St N, Moose Jaw, SK S6J 1L6. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Cara Ashworth, Funeral Director 306-693-4550
My sincerest sympathies to the Coward family.
Most sincere condolences to all Daryl’s family. May he rest in peace.
Sending our deepest condolences. Daryl was a wonderful person and will be remembered with warmth and respect. Our thoughts are with all of Daryl’s family.
Our sincere condolences on the passing of Daryl.
The students and staff of Lindale School send our sincere condolences to Daryl’s family. Hoping that sharing memories and stories of the good times you shared together will bring some comfort as you find your way through this difficult time.
Sending our sincere condolences to the family. Darryl will be greatly missed.
Mel & Pat Allen
Dear Janice and family,
We were so sorry to hear of Daryl’s passing. Although many years have gone by since our families were in touch regularly (Coward reunions at Drinkwater, many family weddings), we remember him warmly and send our condolences.
Please know that we are thinking of you, your children, grandchildren, Tom, and Valerie during this difficult time.
The Nettleton family.
Beth Davis, Laura Stark, Mary Read, Patricia Ireland
Sincere condolences to Janice and all of their family, to Valerie and Tom
Our sincere condolences on the passing of Daryl. Our thoughts are with the entire family.
Our heart felt sympathy to Daryl’s family. You are in our thoughts and prayers at such a difficult time. We’ve known Daryl for many years through the church. He was always a very kind and caring person.
Janice and family
So sorry to hear about daryl passing away. Take care of yourselves at this sad time.
Corey and Karen Mantell and family
Sincere condolences to Janice and the Coward Family on Daryl’s passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
To Janice and Family – Our thoughts and prayers are with you today. Daryl was certainly part of the Minto Family and we always enjoyed the friendship and fellowship that went with worshipping together for many, many years. We also want to offer our condolences to Tom and Family and know that Daryl will be greatly missed. May He Rest in Peace.
Remember the good times and Daryl will always be with you. Thoughts and prayers for all of you at this time of sorrow.
So sorry to hear of the passing of Daryl.
My thoughts and prayers are with Daryl and all the family. I knew Daryl in Briercrest school.
Blessings to you all through this time of deep loss.
Bev Kirilenko (Valerie’s sister-in-law)
Janice and Family
I just watched the service for Darryl and the beautiful tributes his children gave to him.
It was a pleasure to have known Darryl. May he rest in peace.
If there were more Darryl’s in the world it would be a better place.
Condolences to the whole Coward family at this sad time ! Mr Coward was a great guy and did a lot for everyone on this planet ! Great man of very kind and generous intentions
So sorry to hear of Daryl’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Janice and your family
We were so sorry to hear of the passing of Daryl. Our deepest sympathy to Janice and Family, also Tom and Laura – Lee Coward and family. May you cherish your happy memories you have of him. We hope in time these memories will bring you strength, comfort, hope, and peace. HUGS and take care.
So very sorry to hear of your loss, Daryl was always such a kind man, deepest condolences to all his family.
Sending Deepest Sympathy To the families of Daryl Many fond memories of when he drove the school bus and the farming functions He will be missed by all who knew him Cherish your memories