Richard will be greatly missed by his family and friends, including the love of his life, his wife of over 57 years, Helena, daughters Malissa (Alan) Cahalan and Marguerite (Chris) Reid, sister-in-law Maria DiMarco and her sons John (Sandra) and Alex (Christina) DiMarco. One of Richard’s greatest joys was being a grandfather to Ashley and Ryan Cahalan , Rebecca, Sarah and Scott Reid, Robert and Joel DiMarco and Matthew DiMarco.
Richard was the third of 8 children and is survived by his siblings David, Betty, Cynthia and Cedric and predeceased by Joan, Sonny and Julio. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews and extended family.
Richard grew up in Timmins, ON where he developed a passion for hockey and a deep appreciation of nature. He also nurtured a love of music, games, numbers and books. He later moved to Toronto, ON where he met his wife and raised his family. Richard spent early retirement in Campbellford, ON where he actively engaged in country life and community events. Most recently, Richard found himself warmly embraced by the community at St. Bernard’s Residence in Toronto, ON. He was known for his kind heart, helping hand, wealth of jokes and love of the garden.
A visitation will be held from 3-6 PM on Monday, February 19th at Kane-Jerrett Funeral Homes, 8088 Yonge St., Thornhill, ON, L4J 1W3. A funeral mass will be held at 10:30 AM on Tuesday, February 20th at St. Bernard’s Residence Chapel, 685 Finch Ave W., Toronto, ON, M2R 1P2.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Richard’s honour to Hope and Healing International, a charity that was always near to his heart.
