After a brief illness, with loved ones by his side, Richard passed away peacefully at the age of 89. He was born in New Home, Manitoba and grew up on the family farm. Early in life he decided he did not want to be a farmer and ventured to Winnipeg to seek employment. After a short time, he was hired by the C.P.R. as a fireman on the steam engines. Two years later he transferred to Fort William.
In 1957, Richard became a member of the Fort William Police Service. Along with the usual patrol duties he spent several years as Sergeant in the Detective Division. He received the Governor General Exemplary Service Medal and retired after 35 years of service.
Richard met Margaret Dawson on a New Year’s Eve blind date. They married in 1961. In 1964 they finished building their home where Richard would spend the next 60 years. A year after moving in, they welcomed their son Dean, and before long, daughter Louanne.
For many years he enjoyed curling, hunting and golf. Richard and Margaret delighted in their camp at Graham Lake. Many evenings were spent around a family campfire. Fishing, blueberry, and mushroom picking were always on the agenda. The family made numerous road trips throughout Canada and the United States. After retirement Richard and Margaret spent 20 winters in Mesa, AZ. They also ventured on many cruises and other trips throughout parts of Europe.
Richard was a longtime active member of Calvary Lutheran Church. He had a passion for serving and volunteering. He was a member of the Kaministiquia Masonic Lodge and twice served as Master of the Lodge. In 2016 Grand Lodge appointed him as Assistant Grand Chaplain. He was a member of the Scottish Rite and in 2017 was elevated to the 33rd degree. Richard was Chairman of The Scottish Rite Charitable Foundation. In addition, he was a member of the Khartum Shrine Temple in Winnipeg and Lakehead Shrine Club. He was a recipient of the Spirit of Thunder Bay Award and presented with a lifetime membership of the Ontario Police Association.
Richard was predeceased by his wife Margaret, parents Benjamin and Mathilda and sister Linda. Left to mourn his passing are his son Dean (Monique), Amélie and Stéphanie. Daughter Louanne Davey, Marissa and Cassandra. Brother Irvin (Shirl), sister Janet Markwart (Ron), nieces, nephews, as well as his very dear friend Sinikka Salmi.
The family would like to extend a big thank you to the Para Med and Bayshore palliative care teams and Cancer Centre for their dedicated work in our Dad’s final days.
Cremation has taken place. A private graveside family service will be held at a later date at Chapel Lawn Cemetery in Winnipeg for internment of his and Margaret's ashes. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Calvary Lutheran Church or the Shriner's Children Transportation Service.
