Obituary of Richard EVERETT

RICHARD EVERETT With heavy hearts, the family announces the passing of Richard Everett on October 25, 2009. Beloved husband, father, uncle and friend, Richard will be missed and lovingly remembered by so many: his wife Irene, son Bob and wife Yvonne, daughter Cathy and husband Rodney Rolls, "adopted" son Timothy Preston and husband David Ling and grand and great grandchildren John, (Adrian) Tracy, Odin and Solveig Duke and David Rolls. Richard will also be missed by Gayle and Ben and the entire Suveges family, all his nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and many friends. Richard was predeceased by his infant son Richard, his brother George, sisters Edie and Winnie and friends Eric and Ann Farmery. Richard was born in London, England to Richard Everett and Emily Moore on April 18, 1915. The family moved to Winnipeg when Richard was five and settled in West Kildonan where he lived for the rest of his life. On the day Canada declared war in September 1939, Richard enlisted in the army at McGregor Barracks. He went overseas with the first group of Canadian soldiers in the First Canadian Division in December 1939 and did not return until June 1945. As a gunner in the artillery Richard's regiment became part of the Italian campaign, landing in Sicily, crossing the Straits of Messina into Southern Italy. It was there that Richard saw battle at both Ortona and Mount Casino. Richard returned from overseas in June 1945. A week later at the train station he met Irene -both of them there to welcome home Irene's brother Keg who had been overseas with Richard for six years. Richard and Irene remained together from that moment forward, a commitment and bond that lasted and extended to their children and families for the past sixty- four years. They would have celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary on November 17th. Their loyalty and commitment to each other was unwavering. Richard's return from overseas saw not only marriage, but also his joining of the 39th Field artillery, in connection with which he spent many happy Saturday nights at the Sargeant's Mess with their friends the Farmerys and many others. He became employed at Canada Post and worked there for over thirty years, particularly enjoying his position there as a criminal investigator. Richard was a man of lively intellect and boundless energy. He enjoyed life to the fullest, right up until the end. His dignified demeanour belied a great sense of humour and playfulness. He had many interests. He was a fan of horse racing, spending many happy times with friends at Assiniboia Downs and at the harness races. Recently, he enjoyed spending time at the Casino where he was well cared for by the staff. He played soccer for Canada during the war and curled for many years. Richard also loved music - everything from opera to the Eagles and he enjoyed nothing better than a family sing along after a Sunday night supper. Our family has many people to thank. Richard received wonderful care from his home care attendants Mario, Nathaniel, Krissa, Tina and, of course, our newest family member Norma. We are grateful to Doctors Jason, Snoveda, VandeVelde, Ulmer and Haikowa for the good care that Richard has received. To Dr. Pat Harris, Richard's dedicated doctor and our loyal family friend; we can never thank you enough for the superlative care and compassion you have provided over these many years. If you wish, donations may be made to a cancer charity to help doctors like Pat carry on their commitment and work. To our friends who have helped us through this difficult time, our heartfelt thanks to all of you. A private service has already taken place. First and foremost in Richard's life has always been his devotion to his wife and family. He leaves us all with a legacy of love, integrity and honour. Everyone who knew him has a fond story to tell and warm memories to cherish. The mention of his name will always bring a smile to the faces of all who knew him. We will always love him. "Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal." REST IN PEACE DEAR FATHER.