John (Rick) Richard Charlton

It is with great sadness that we share the peaceful passing of Rick on December 7, 2023 where he was surrounded by his loving family. Predeceased by his parents Gladys and John Charlton of Stratford. He leaves behind the love of his life of 56 years Gerda. Their two sons Marc (Jen), and Scott( Nella). Rick also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren who he took great pleasure in spending time with. Cameron(Chelsea), Dalen, Spencer and Tess. Grandpa Rick as he was known would do everything from play batman and robin with towels as capes to going to the movies with them. He was fortunate enough to meet his great grandson Jayce. He is also survived by his sister Cathy Freeman (George) and their children Melissa(Ryan) and John(Fernanda) and their daughter Amaranta. He is also survived by brother in law Fritz Steigmeier(Brigitte) and niece Katie(Andre) and their children Isabella, Michael and Victoria and nephew Chris.

Many people knew Rick throughout his years of teaching at countless schools in the Wellington County Area as well as being a volleyball coach and baseball umpire. He was a graduate of Stratford Collegiate and kept in touch with a group of old friends called The Stratford Old Boys.

Rick was also known for his love of sports and music. One of the first word that his grandsons’ learned was “Habs” and we know that that tradition will carry on with Jayce. He not only loved his beloved Montreal Canadiens but was also an LA Dodgers fan and a Hamilton Tiger Cats fan.

Rick loved music of all sorts and would always listen with an open ear to anything that was played for him. He had an extensive knowledge of music and a lot of songs were listened to with his family by his side during his last few days bringing up lots of fond memories for many.

Rick often referred to people as “guy” as being a teacher of so many students who had loved him he couldn’t always remember their names and “guy” was just easier. It quickly became his nickname and was often on his coaching jackets.

During his retirement he could either be found in Mexico or travelling the word with Gerda by his side. It didn’t matter how many stingrays he stepped on or how many scorpions stung him he was always up for the adventure.

Thank you to everyone who helped make his final days comfortable from family, friends, nursing staff, PSW’s etc. Everyone loved to have Rick give them a laugh.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Gilbert MacIntyre and Son Funeral Home-Hart Chapel, 1099 Gordon Street, Guelph (519-821-5077). Family invite friends and relatives to a Visitation on Friday, December 15, 2023 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm and on Saturday, December 16, 2023 from 9:00am to 11:00am. A Celebration of Rick's Life will be held on Saturday, December 16, 2023 at 11:00am in the funeral home's Hart Chapel. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or Alzheimer Society would be much appreciated. Donations can be made in person at the funeral home or online at www.gilbertmacintyreandson.com