Darrell Bailes
On June 27, 2011, Darrell Bailes passed away in his home in Carnation, WA, surrounded by his loving family, after a ten month battle with cancer.
Darrell was born in Seattle, WA on April 15, 1950. He grew up on a small family farm in the Redmond-Fall City area with his parents and two brothers. Darrell was a kind brother who always took good care of his younger brother. Throughout his childhood, Darrell enjoyed spending time at the swimming hole, playing baseball, and hunting and fishing with his dad.
Being the hard worker that he always was, Darrell also began helping with the family printing business at the age of 8. Darrell attended Mt. Si High School and then transferred to Redmond High School where he graduated in 1968.
After graduating, Darrell began his formal career in the printing industry, working at Ridgeway Carton Company in Seattle for a number of years, followed by Trade Products in Lynnwood for 30 years, and finishing at Liberty Mutual in Redmond. He was an accomplished Lithography Manager who would never expect any of the individuals who reported to him to do anything he wasn’t willing to do himself. He was a fair, honest, and straight-forward man, and these qualities were reflected in all aspects of his life.
It was Redmond High School where Darrell met the love of his life, Connie Quinn. The couple married in August of 1969, just shortly after Connie graduated. Darrell was 19 years old and Connie just 18 years old. The couple resided in Kirkland the first few years of their marriage, joyfully welcoming the birth of a son, Jon Bailes, in August of 1971, and a daughter, Lisa Bailes, in July of 1974.
In 1979 the couple built a home together, with the help of their family and friends, on 2 acres of land they had purchased in Carnation, WA. This is the home where they raised their family and have continued to reside ever since. It has been said by many people over the years that Darrell and Connie were like newlyweds their entire lives, serving as wonderful role-models to all who aspired to have a lasting, loving, and happy marriage.
Darrell was a true family man who worked hard every day to provide a stable, loving home for his family, and to take an active role in his children’s lives. Darrell enjoyed coaching baseball when his children were young, and was a positive and memorable influence on many youth in the Carnation-Duvall area.
Darrell was an avid hunter and fisherman his entire life, and was adamant about gun safety. He was a responsible hunter who respected the weapons as well as the wildlife. Some of his happiest moments were spent hunting in the NE corner of Washington State, out in the middle of nowhere. This is where Darrell found great peace and savored many happy memories with friends and family.
Darrell also enjoyed spending time on the family’s property in Sunland, Washington, where he taught his children and grandchildren how to drive a boat and water-ski on the Columbia River. This was also the site of many fond memories for Darrell. Darrell was beloved by all and will be sorely missed.
He is survived by his wife, Connie Bailes; his son, Jon Bailes; his daughter, Lisa Kenyon; his daughter-in-law Becky Bailes; his son-in-law Shawn Kenyon; his grandchildren Katie Bailes, Shaun Bailes, Riley Kenyon, and Jon Kenyon; and his brothers Stephen Bailes and Richard Zackrison.
A memorial service will be held July 16, 2011 at 2:30 pm at the Sno-Valley Senior Center, located at 4610 Stephens Ave, Carnation, WA. The family invites all of Darrell’s family and friends to come and celebrate his life with them, and requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in his name to the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation by calling 1-800-225-5355 or online at WWW.RMEF.ORG (click on “Donate Now”).
The family encourages you to post condolences and share happy memories of Darrell here on this site.
45 Responses to “Darrell Bailes”
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We will love and miss him always. He was taken from us far too soon, but his legacy will live on. We are forever grateful for the time we were able to spend with him, and the wonderful memories that we hold so dearly. Thank you all for your outpouring of love and support. Lisa Kenyon (daughter)
We are thinking of you all during this sad time. Darrell was a wonderful kind man. Everytime you saw him he had a smile.
He will be missed.
I’m truly sorry to hear of your loss of Darrell, I pray that you are able to manage through these hard time. God Bless you Connie, you are in my prayers.
Janet Fox
I was very sad to hear about Darrell’s illness and passing. I didn’t know Darrell well but always enjoyed seeing him at family events.
I would like to share one memory of Darrell. Uncle Brice and my younger brothers were shooting at a target under the garage at Quinn’s Corner Store. Jon Bailes was very young and started running to find out what was happening. The next thing I remember is Darrell running the fastest sprint I’d seen at Quinn’s Corner and swooping in to pick up Jon. He was in no danger but as good parent he didn’t want his son running loose during live fire.
I would like to send my condolences to Connie and the rest of Darrell’s family. He will be greatly missed.
Connie and Family,
I never saw Darrell without a smile; I will miss that. We are so sorry for your loss.
Connie, our prayers are with you. I remember well when you announced your upcoming marriage to Darrell…. you made him the happiest boy in the world! And I remember your first home(s) and how in love you two were. I know those and many more memories will comfort you for the rest of your life. Our sincere sympathy.
Your cousin, Bonnie and Pat
I am happy that I was able to meet Darrell a few times and I fondly remember the slide show and presentation of your Africa trip many years ago down at the ceramic store on West Lake Sammamish. Although he was taken far too early in life, he no longer has to suffer. You are a stong person and I know that you will go on in life with your family as Darrell would want you to.
I’ll be attending on the 16th.
Hello Connie and family,
We are very sorry to hear of the loss of Darrell. It is sad to lose someone who was so happy and vital in life, but this also leaves you with many happy memories. Enjoy those memories and take care.
Mary & Roy Ellerman
Connie & family,
We are very sorry to hear of your loss of Darrell.
It is sad to lose someone who was so vital and happy, but at the same time, it leaves you with many happy memories. Enjoy those memories and take care.
Mary & Roy Ellerman
Connie & family,
We are very sorry to hear of your loss of Darrell. It is sad to lose someone who was so happy and vital, however, that kind of life leaves you with many happy memories. Enjoy those memories and take care.
Mary & Roy Ellerman
Connie & family,
We are very sorry to hear of your loss of Darrell.
It is sad to lose someone who had such a vital and happy life, however, this does leave you with many happy memories. Enjoy the memories and take care.
Mary & Roy Ellerman
Darrell and Connie were such an amazing example of supreme love and commitment. The legacy of that in their children and their children’s children and those of us that had the benefit of closeness with their family will be everlasting. As a couple and as a family they lived life and loved well. I have so many fond memories of vacations with them and fondue parties that remind me to enjoy time with friends and family whenever possible. Thank you for sharing so much. I love you all and am so sorry for your loss.
Stephanie (childhood friend of daughter Lisa)
What a beautiful and moving tribute this is to Darrell’s life. I am so sorry for the grief your family must be feeling at the loss of loving partner, father and grandfather. Darrell was such a wonderful man and a very good friend to me over all the years I have known you all. He is deeply missed but I am not sorry that is suffering is at an end. My heart is so full of sadness for you all. Your loving friend, Jo
Here’s to you Darrell, my cousin, my brother,my pal. For 60 years we were twin terrors moving from mischief to mischief, constantly surviving goofy stunts kids today would never have a shot at trying let alone pulling off. From mud bombing highway traffic, to wrecking Doc’s truck, busting the garage, burning down the pig shed, falling out of tall trees and blowing up stumps with dynamite at the ripe old age of 11, ahhhh… those were the days. There was always fun to be had, often paid for with an old fashioned belt whoopin’. We survived mentally unscathed but not without some cool scars for our efforts. We’ll be forever young in memory and spirit.
There’s a hole in my chest with you gone but we’ll meet again soon enough. To the whole family you have my love and heart felt gratitude for all your strength and compassion this last year. It’s been tough but it will get better. God bless this family, each and every one. Aloha nui loa, Jim
I just wanted to share a memory of my Uncle Darrell. When I was about 11 or 12, I was visting my Grandma Willa in Sunlands. I was out in the boat with Uncle Darrell and Aunt Connie. Connie was water skiing and I was the spotter, while Uncle Darrell drove the boat. When Aunt Connie fell, it took me a little longer then it should have to tell Uncle Darrell. When he looked back and saw how far away she was, he sternly told me I needed to tell him quicker. Then a few seconds later he apologized, and asked me if he was being grumpy, in which I promptly replied, yes! I don’t know what he was thinking after my reply, but nothing else was said! That memory has always made me laugh. Uncle Darrell was always trying to make us smile, by calling us a funny name or saying something else funny. I’m grateful I had him as an uncle in this life, and I know I will still have him as an uncle in the life to come. We will miss you Uncle Darrell. Until we meet again….
Love,
Christina
Uncle Darrell was a wonderful man. He led by example with his strength of character, patience, and passion for life. He and Connie built a legacy in the beautiful, loving family that they raised together. We will never forget him.
Connie, Jon and Family,
You are all in our prayers. I didn’t know Darrell personally, however, I know what a great man he was thru Jon. Family and Friends are the world’s greatest gifts and we have lost both. His memories will be with you always. Less than a year ago I lost my father and best friend. Darrell has taken on the role of gardian angel now and I have no doubt that he will protect all of you. Sending Love and Prayers from the Eaves Ohana to yours!
Jon and family,
I lost my grandfather who raised me a few months ago. No words can offer the comfort for the loss of a loved one but I do know your Dad lives on through you and all that he touched. Like my grandfather taught me the joys of hunting and fishing, yours also taught you the same and I know you are passing that same love to your children. It is very apparent that he was a great man and his legacy will be carried on for a very long time to come. May you smile and laugh when you think of him and the life that he led. Once again, I am sorry for your loss.
God Bless,
Ben W.
Papa let me do fun things like learn how to shoot a gun, ride a quad with him, watch hunting and fishing shows, drive his boat, and he took me for walks in the woods. I will miss him and I love him. Jon
Papa has moved on to a place where he will be not in pain anymore and will see his mom, and old friends. I always loved going downstairs and watching his hunting and fishing shows, even though i thought they were kind of boring. I liked going down there so i could talk with him about stuff like my girl scout cookie selling, trips i’ll go on, etc. I also liked when he would ride with me on the quad and let me drive the boat. papa was a great man, and will be always in my heart, i love and miss him verry much. Riley
To my beautiful Aunt Connie and cousins Jon-Jon and Lisa. So much love and sadness is felt for the loss of Uncle Darrell. His smile will forever be etched in my mind. I love you all so much!
Connie, Jon and Family
Danielle and I a truly saddened by your families loss. As one of Jon’s old Navy buddies, I only had the pleasure of meeting Darrell a few times but felt as though I had always known him. I wish I could have made it out to one of those epic hunting trips in the back country each year. God bless all of you in this time of sorrow, his legacy remains with those who are left behind.
Connie and family, My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. I never met Darrell, but know he was such an important part of your life.
Glenda Zwambag
Connie and Family
You are all in my thoughts and prayers. I know he will be sorely missed. I took seminars from Connie in Las Vegas, and she always spoke of Darrell and her family, you could see all the love and respect in her face. I will pray for her to have strength and to remember all the wonderful times they shared. God Bless.
I am truly sorry for your loss of a husband, father, and grandfather. Feelings run deep and true. Sometimes you cannot put into words what you want to say. Darrell is in a much better place today. He has no pain or sorrow. He raised two GREAT kids that will watch over his loving wife while her life continues. I am fortunate to have met this man and his family. You all will be in our prayers. God Bless all of you.
Mike
I worked with Darrell at Trade Products in the early 80’s and it appears he never changed – thank goodness. He was a very honest, sincere, wholesome person, willing to do anything for the betterment of whomever or whatever and always with a smile. I’m so sorry for you Connie, & family, for your loss along with the loss of one of the great people on our earth. My thoughts are with you all.
Dear Connie and Family,
So sorry for your sad loss. My heart goes out to you. Take care.
Love, Diane, Kevin, Orion and Gabrielle
I keep trying to think of something special to say about Darrell, and discovered that it’s impossible to think of one – or even several – things special about Darrell because, as my brother, almost everything he did was special. Yeah, he could be cranky at times and was stubborn as hell at times, but he was still special, even when he was stubborn. I’ll miss him badly. Why? Simply because he was special!!
Connie,
Although I never met Darrell I knew by the way you spoke of him in classes that he was an amazing person. Much love to you and your family.
Connie and Family,
I am so sorry to hear of Darrell’s passing. I know from your stories of him and your trips in classes that you have many beautiful memories. You are in my heart and prayers. I hope to see you soon. Love you.
Dear Connie:
Sometimes, when the shop was closed, we sat at the table talking and I remember many terrific stories about your hunting trip with Darrell, different times at your property, your travels and many more adventures you shared. I’m glad I was able to meet Darrell and see him with you a few times. He was always happy and had a big, smile. I hope your memories will bring you some peace during this difficult time. I’m so sorry for your sadness. I’ll keep you in my prayers. Love, Lorraine
It is wonderful seeing all these comments about Darrell, he was a brave man. It’s heart warming to hear from everyone that he’s touched.
He was a tough guy and he made our family strong.
I think about him every day and I miss him.
PS: Zack, p;ease elaborate! I know he was a master at getting under your skin, Please tell us something only an older brother knows.
Connie, I was sad to hear that the love of your life, had passed. I can only begin to imagine what you and your family are going through. Although I didn’t know Darrell that well, what I did know is that you both were greatly in love and that he was a good man, husband and father. My family and I will continue to pray for you and your family. God Bless.
My condolences on the passing of Darrell. As one of his peers in Dover, NH, I was only able to work with him for a short time when he came out to visit our site. He was very engaging and shared many experiences with us, he was a great addition to our management team at Liberty Mutual. He will be sadly missed. God Bless!
Darrell was a great husband, a loving Father and a kind friend. I can remember how gracious of a host he was when we went over for a weekend getaway at Sunlands. With his patience I was able to get up on a couple of skis…I think he was more thrilled for me then I was for myself..that was the last time I went skiing. The memory of that fun weekend will be forever etched in my mind!
He will be greatly missed.
donna scavotto says
darrell was a great man and so loving
we will miss him and never forget him
darrell and all the family are in out prays
love aunt donna uncle john and anne
What can one say of a man that had so much strength and love? He was the rock so many times in my life when I needed one, a voice of reason, and of course the one that could bring a smile. He meant so much to me in so many ways. I was blessed to have such a special man in my life. Katie and Shaun will continue to know the love of there Grandpa everyday as he took time to always let them know. I love you, as I called him, You Old Goat!
I didn’t know Darrell very long since I’m somewhat new to the family. But it was my pleasure having known him and I know I’ll miss many wonderful stories, adventures and memories since he was taken from everyone far too soon. I’ll always be greatful for his warmth, laughter and smiles. He leaves behind a beautiful family that is also my pleasure to know. May God bless
We have never heard such an outpouring of Love as we read from all of the above friends and family’s comments. We feel all of the same feelings for Darrel, you and your family. god Bless you all. We are here for you when ever you need someone to lean on.
Ralph and Jeanette
I give my heartfelt sympathy to Darrell’s family on his passing. I didn’t know Darrell very long since he started working at Liberty Mutual here in Redmond, WA, but I do miss him very much. He always came to work with a smile on his face and he had an infectious laughter that came out whenever we would trade stories of past times in our lives. He was a great addition to our Management team and his peers and team members all have found memories of him.
A toast to a good friend: To the man that taught me the two step at Al’s Tavern. To the man who would sneak up behind me when we were hunting only to see if I stopped periodically to see if anything was crossing my trail. To the man who coached me on being a good husband. To the man who I will always remember for his kind words, support, and ‘can do’ attitude. Darrell will be missed, but never forgotten. Connie, Lisa, and Jon, my prayers and deepest sympathies are with you all.
My sincerest sympathy to Connie and her family. A life truly lived, is a gift to everyone.
When I first met Darrell, I wasn’t sure that we would get along. He appeared too “American”. It didn’t take a long time for us to call each other brother, and that was not just because of the “big brother” we shared. Talking to him when he was very sick already I was amazed by his bravery and positive spirit, even when things weren’t looking too good – a bump in the road he said. You will navigate this one I said. But I guess this bump was too steep, and I suspect he knew it all along. You see, he wanted to be positive right up to the end, and he succeeded. May his soul rest in peace. Connie, there is no greater blessing than being really there for your loved one up to the very end. For all the children and grand-children hold on to all the beautiful memories and the lessons of his life taught. The Zimbabwe Family
I fisrt met Darrell in 1981 (30 yrs ago)Darrell was a young pressman and I was starting my Trade Products career as a feeder. I didn’t feed for Darrell full time but filled in on his press here and there.Darrell was always a fair pressman and always willing to teach new feeders Everything they needed to know about sheetfed printing.WELL FAST FORWARD; (20 yrs 2001) A lot has changed. Darrell is now pressroom manager and I a pressman,working for Darrell. Darrell loved ! this job and at one point had 10 presses running 3 shifts around the clock.Darrell expected top qaulity printing from all his pressman,which made Trade Products the #1 pulltab manufacture for many yrs.I will always cherish the memories I hold of Darrell and will never forget him! In closing I would to thank Connie and Family for allowing us from Trade! to be apart of Darrells Service it was very gratifing to speak about a great man.. .
I just found out about Darrell passing I worked with him for 15 years at trade as a press feeder for him then as a press operator beside him and then as a supervisor on third shift.Darrell was a hard working man who was very dedicated to his job as well as his family. I always remember how excited he was to take a submarine ride with his son for three days he was very proud of you Jon.god bless his family and remember he lives on through the many peoples lives he touched.