Darren Bob New was called home on August 11, 2021 after a heroic battle with colon cancer at age 53. Darren was literally and figuratively a giant of a man, standing 6’8.” In fact, his mother called him her “gentle giant,” and we are sure they are enjoying a heavenly reunion.

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Born February 16, 1968 to Bob and Genie New, he was the firstborn, only son, and best big brother. He was born with a club foot and endured long stretches of time in leg braces as a child. Yet, he never complained. He carried that grit with him into adulthood. Indeed, Darren embodied hard work and resilience. An honest, no-nonsense work ethic was the north star of his moral compass. Following the cancer diagnosis in 2016, Darren braved multiple surgeries, procedures, chemotherapy, and radiation treatments. His optimism never wavered. He persevered with a “never give up” attitude and continually proved medical professionals wrong. He defied suggested workloads and timelines— pushing through immense pain and fatigue with quiet, Herculean strength.

After graduating from Cyprus High School in 1986, he earned his associates degree at Universal Technical Institute in Phoenix, Arizona. He went on to have a distinguished career as a mechanic and service manager for Salt Lake Valley GMC for over 30 years. He achieved ASE Certified Master Tech and GM Certified Master Tech status. In 2008 he was awarded the GM/ASE Master M/H Truck Technician of the Year and received the GM Mark of Excellence in 2009, 2014, and 2016. He was remarkably dedicated to the dealership and cherished the relationships he built through his years in the industry.

“NEVER GIVE UP”

Always in pursuit of a fulfilling hobby, Darren was most impassioned about trapshooting. His experience and knowledge made him a walking firearm and reloading encyclopedia. He was an accomplished competitor who once hit 572 clay pigeons in a row. He earned a place on the Utah State Trapshooting Association Teams multiple years. The trapshooting community lost a great man and skilled competitor. In addition to shooting, he enjoyed snowmobiling, cowboy movies, and spending time at his dad’s cabin.

Darren was fiercely loyal. If you could talk shop, vehicles, or guns, you had an instant friend. If you gained his trust, you had a friend for life. His generosity with friends and loved ones never ceased. He found great delight in spoiling his nieces and nephews.

He is survived by his father, Chester Bob New; his sisters Shawnee Fischer Christensen (Kirk), Kori Wakamatsu (Josh), Heidi Johnson (Greg); and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother LuGene Fern and brother-in-law Scot Fischer.

The family would like to thank his dear friends Keyvan Keyvani and family, GayLynn Gailey, Bruce Maycock, and the Salt Lake Valley GMC community for their support and endless generosity.

A viewing will be held August 19, 2021 from 6:00-8:00 pm at Valley View Memorial Park and Funeral Home, 4335 W 4100 S, West Valley City. Graveside services will take place on August 20, 2021 at 11:00 am at Valley View Memorial Park, with a viewing prior from 9:45 to 10:45 am.

We love you Darren and will miss you everyday of our lives. We look forward to that joyful reunion when we get to see your smiling face again and get one of your big giant bear hugs.