Lifelong Outdoorsman Wayne Steele Darling Dies at 79

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Wayne Steele Darling, a lifelong outdoorsman who lived in Vermont's Monkton Town Forest for over 50 years, passed away at his home on January 23, 2026, at the age of 79. Darling was known for his deep spiritual connection to the natural world, which he shared with his family through camping trips, skiing, and observing wildlife around his home. He was also an active athlete, participating in sports like wrestling and swimming throughout his life.

Why it matters

Darling's story highlights the importance of preserving natural spaces and instilling a love of the outdoors in future generations. As a longtime resident of Monkton Town Forest, Darling embodied the values of environmental stewardship and outdoor recreation that are crucial for building sustainable communities.

The details

Darling was born in Nampa, Idaho, and graduated from Borah High School in Boise in 1965. He went on to earn a degree in political science from Columbia University in 1969, where he also captained the wrestling team and completed Naval ROTC. Before moving to Vermont in 1972, Darling taught history and politics and coached wrestling and football at St. Paul's School in Garden City, New York. Throughout his life, Darling remained an active participant and dedicated spectator of many sports, including spending eight seasons timing races for the Addison Otters Swim Team.

• Darling was born on October 2, 1946, in Nampa, Idaho.
• Darling graduated from Borah High School in Boise, Idaho, in 1965.
• Darling earned a degree in political science from Columbia University in 1969.
• Darling moved to Vermont in 1972 and lived in Monkton Town Forest for the past 54 years.
• Darling passed away at his home in Monkton, Vermont, on January 23, 2026, at the age of 79.