Darryl Leslie Gopaul
January 22, 2025
Darryl Leslie Gopaul passed away peacefully on January 22, 2025 in his 86th year at London Health Sciences Centre. Born in Port of Spain, Trinidad to Robert and Rita (Mahabal), he moved to Britain for his education in his early 20s and then to Canada in 1967.
A laboratory scientist and prolific author, Darryl led the microbiology laboratory at St Joseph’s Health Care in London for nearly three decades, publishing dozens of scientific articles and lecturing frequently both in Canada and internationally. Darryl was an avid traveler, circumnavigating the globe with his wife, Daphne, in 2000, and taking his family on wonderful, memorable cruises in his later years. With his ebullient, extroverted personality, his sense of humour, and his love of socializing, he will be remembered by his many friends and family as a raconteur and the life of the party.
Darryl is survived by his wife, Daphne; his daughters Tanya and Laura; his grandson Archer; his Austrian daughter Roberta and her children Annika, Theresia, and Jakob; and many siblings, nieces, and nephews; all of whom he loved and treasured in his heart.
Darryl has been privately cremated according to his wishes. As he devoted his life in service to public health care, in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation.
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Darryl had such a joie de vivre and was a true friend who loved his family & friends deeply. We have fond memories of his laughter, ear to ear smile, his love of entertaining , and his generosity towards friends & family as well as his "gift of the gab". He will be truly missed. Much love and warm hugs to you - Daphne, Tanya, Laura, and Archer
"Though we were not very close, I recognize the impact my uncle Darryl had on those around him. He was a part of our family’s story, and his presence will be missed. My thoughts are with my aunt Daphne, my cousins Tanya, Laura and Archer and to those who held him dear, and I hope his memory brings them comfort."
🫡🫡🫡 You’re name will live on through your family, friends and our memories. ❤️😇❤️
I was saddened to hear the news of Darryl's passing. I had the pleasure of working with him many years ago and will always remember how he was able to instantly brighten a room. Darryl was truly one of a kind and will be missed.
We just heard the news about Darryl. I am in shock. He was such an inspiration to me and allowed me to help him with numerous projects he had on the go. So sorry for your loss, Daphne, Tanya and Laura.
A donation has been made to St. Joseph’s Healthcare Foundation. Message from the donator: Laura and family, We are so sorry to hear of your father’s passing. I remember meeting your Dad years ago, such a nice man, he made you feel like you have known him for years. Our sympathy to you all during this difficult time. Kim Spearin and Rob Whitmore
Daphne, Tanya, Laura I was so sad to hear of the passing of Darryl. I was lucky enough to have him drop into the St. Joseph's Foundation a few months ago, was great to catch up on the family with him. You are in my prayers. Love Susan
A donation has been made to St. Joseph's Health Care Foundation. Message from the donator: Always a gentleman, Darryl will be fondly remembered and dearly missed. My deepest condolences to Daphne and family.
Laura, Archer and family, So sorry to hear about the passing of your father. It’s never easy when e have had them for a long time. I hope you think of all the smiles and laughs you had together.
My eldest brother whom I always wanted his praise and respect. He gave both and I will always cherish his generosity, kindness and love. He was always supportive to me and my son Guy, well aware that it was not always easy being a single mom. I am in still a state of shock as he was the biggest light in the room. Thanks to God that he is at peace and will be reunited with our mother, father, Trevor and Grace. You will be missed, dear brother and know that your little sister will always remember how kind and good you were to me. Love to you always, Bobbie
Daphne, Tanya, Laura and family, I am sorry to hear of Darryl’s passing. He was always the bright light in the room. I know you will all miss him dearly. Lydia
Very sorry to hear of Darryl's passing. He was always a bright spot in any room, happy to chat and had a great sense of humor. Our thoughts are with you at this sad time.
Daphne and family, I am so sorry to hear of Darryl’s passing. He was a brilliant man and I was lucky to hear him speak on a few occasions, most memorably at Daphne’s retirement party. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
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I was not aware of Darryl’s passing until this week, so I apologize for this tribute arriving one month late. However, it would be ungrateful of me not to add to the tributes for someone who welcomed us into his house as strangers at Christmas 35 years ago and treated us as members of his extended family. Daryl and Daphne became good friends to me over the years. Daryl was a positive influence on my son, introducing him to what a career in science would look like and supporting his interest in the arts. Daphne, I remember with fondness those “birthday” lunches at his favourite Greek restaurant, where Daryl would spend the first hour regaling us with stories of his many projects, his beautiful daughters whom he loved so much, and his enthusiasm for his treasured role as grandad. Daryl truly loved life and living well. He was happy to be around friends and was the best host one could have. Daphne, Tanya, Laura, and Archie — you can be so proud of his legacy. You are very blessed!
~ Daphne Heywood