Richard (Dick) passed away quietly at his oceanfront estate with both his much loved wife Irene & daugther Marla at his side. Richard and Irene were united in marriage April 8th, 1950 in Christ Church Cathedral in Victoria. Survived by his younger brother Laurie & his cherished grandchildren Andrew, Cameron, Kira & Michael. Predeceased by his eldest daughter Lori Ann(2012), mother Elizabeth (1990) & father Orton (1959).
Richard’s last day was just shy of picture perfect for him. Opening with engaging conversation with his valued golf buddies over coffee at The Ridge, moving on to an active afternoon working on one of his many outdoor project commitments & closing with a relaxing evening watching an old time cowboy movie on TV.
Richard was a very respected & charismatic business man. He held the position of Electrical Manager with Commonwealth Construction Ltd (Hume & Rumble Ltd). He was responsible for numerous challenging multi-million dollar projects within B.C. As well, huge electrial contracts throughout both North & South America, including areas as far away Egypt.
Richard, Irene & their two young daugthers moved from the city comforts of Victoria to the unknown rural living of the Cowichan Valley in 1963. This began his devotion to his role as Gentlemen Farmer of Greentrees Ranch (4158 Hillbank Road, Cowichan Station). His achievements were the breeding & showing of championship Herford cattle, Throughbred horses & Corgi dogs. Admittingly this was an amazing environment to raise his family. He valued his influence & guidance offered to Angus Izard & family during their time at the ranch with this trememous bond & connection lasting his lifetime.
Richard served in the Canadian Navy during WWII. His final mission was to Hong Kong in 1945 aboard the HMCS Prince Robert to facilitate the release of Canadian POW’s. During his youth he developed a strong passion for competive sports. He was passionate about fly & ocean fishing & participated in the Port Alberni Tyee Fishing Derby for years. He was a long time member of the Gorge Vale Golf Course & after retirement joined the Arbutus Ridge course.
Richard was a healthy, high energy man until his day of passing. Always showing an overwhelming amount of enthusiasm with every undertaking. He did not suffer fools well & always encouraged others to be the best they could be. He will be deeply missed by all his surviving family & friends. No funeral service will be held at Richard’s request. A Private Family Gathering is planned for the near future.