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June 22, 1950 - August 9, 2021
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, Dad, Papa, brother, brother-in-law, nephew, uncle, cousin and friend. Richard was born in Duncan, BC and passed away at home with his family by his side, following a courageous battle with cancer.
He was predeceased by his parents, Nels and Shirley Neva. Rich will be greatly missed by his loving wife of 46 years Ellen; their sons: Scott and Mike (Christie), and grandchildren: Carter, Marly, Sianna, Kennedie and Grady.
He will also be remembered by brother Ken (Faith), sister-in-law Sylvia (Lance), brother-in-law Ron, Aunt Lavina and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He loved his family and his grandchildren were his pride and joy. We are all heartbroken that he was taken from us far too soon and will be remembered forever in our hearts.
Rich was a "Forever Laker" having lived his entire life in Lake Cowichan. He took an interest in fixing cars at a young age. He attended Vocational school in Nanaimo and worked at Krakowec's garage where he completed his apprenticeship as a gas mechanic. Although he enjoyed working as an auto mechanic, he felt drawn to the trucking industry, purchased a truck and formed his own company.
Rich worked in the forest industry for almost 40 years and always said how much he enjoyed going to work. He was a self taught heavy duty mechanic and welder and kept his logging truck in tip top condition. His shop was his happy place. He spent countless hours repairing his trucks, tinkering on his vintage cars, welding or just sitting around the wood stove having coffee with his friends.
Rich was a remarkable fabricator. His most ambitious project was building a logging truck and he enjoyed taking it to truck shows and driving it in the local Heritage Days parade each year. He was also a "Mr. Fix-It" and a "Jack of all Trades" and was often called upon by family and friends to lend a helping hand.
Richard and Ellen enjoyed travelling and made many treasured memories during their trips to Hawaii, Mexico, Arizona, Southern California as well as various locations in Canada.
The family would like to thank Dr. David Froese for his exceptional care over the past few years. Thanks also to Dr. Joe, Dr. Fibich, Dr. Wilhelm, Dr. Adzich, and the nurses in the Cowichan Chemo Clinic for the compassionate care Rich received during his cancer journey.
Those wishing to do so, may make a donation to the BC Cancer Foundation, 150 - 686 West Broadway, Vancouver, B.C. V5Z 1G1.
Celebration of Life on Saturday, July 16, 2022 at 2:00 pm at Lake Cowichan Centennial Hall, 309 S Shore Road, Lake Cowichan, BC.
Condolences may be offered online at www.sandsduncan.ca.


 Sands of Duncan

Service Details

Celebration of Life
Saturday, July 16, 2022
2:00 PM
Lake Cowichan Centennial Hall, 309 S Shore Road, Lake Cowichan, BC


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