Darrell Stern's Obituary
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Darrell Allen Stern, 72, on April 11th, 2025. He passed peacefully at home after a battle with cancer. A celebration of life was held on May 11th at Meadowpark Golf Course in Foley's Bar & Grill Fireplace Room.
Darrell was born in Greenwood, California, on September 6, 1952, to his parents, William and Patricia Stern. As a baby, his family relocated to a close-knit neighborhood in Tacoma, Washington, where he spent his childhood. The many friendships and strong sense of community inspired Darrell to purchase his childhood home from his mother in his early twenties, a place he would continue to call home into adulthood.
Darrell’s successful career as a skilled machinist in Tacoma started at Tacoma Boatbuilding Company. He moved on to St. Regis, Champion, and eventually Simpson. He retired from Simpson on September 9, 2009.
Darrell was a kind and generous man with a wide circle of friends he loved spending time with. An avid golfer, he could often be found on the course enjoying the game he loved. With a deep appreciation for the outdoors, hunting, fishing, camping, and hiking were his favorite pastimes. He proudly reached the summit of Mt. Rainier in August of 1989.
Darrell shared a loving and joyful life with his long-time partner, Lori Smith. Together, they built a life of laughter, love, and adventure. They enjoyed traveling to new places and always found peace and happiness on their favorite getaways to the beaches of Washington and Oregon. He also had a green thumb, and his garden was a source of pride where he grew the ingredients for his homemade salsa, which became a treasured gift among family and friends.
Darrell is survived by his life partner, Lori Smith; stepdaughter, Sarah Hamrick Twamley; sister, Sally Steuby; brother, Duane Stern; and brother, Randy Stern, as well as many nieces, nephews, and step-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by both of his parents.
Darrell will forever be a part of the great Pacific Northwest.
What’s your fondest memory of Darrell?
What’s a lesson you learned from Darrell?
Share a story where Darrell's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Darrell you’ll never forget.
How did Darrell make you smile?