Ronald Joseph Ricard

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ronald Joseph Ricard on December 8, 2024, at the age of 80. Born on January 13, 1944, Ronald was the eldest child of Damian and Mary Ricard. He grew up with a strong sense of responsibility, which he carried throughout his life.

Ronald was a devoted husband to his wife of 54 years, Kathy, and a loving father to Sharon (Brent) McCabe, Theresa (Danny) Burak, Michael (Angie) Ricard, and Patricia (Michael) Yereniuk. He was also a proud grandfather to Codie (Andrea), Francis (Jess), Brittney, Danah, Andy, Jillian, Alex, and Logan, and a great-grandfather to Theodore.

He was predeceased by his parents, his brothers Denis and Richard, and his sister Elaine. He is survived by his siblings Louise (Heinz) Wittenbecher, Vernon (Darlene) Ricard, and Bernadette Hennessy.

In 1970, Ronald began a long and successful career with Standard General, where he started as a grader operator. Over the years he ran a variety of equipment, supervised a buggy crew and a crushing spread, worked at the Riverview Pit, the Soil Cement Plant, and the Yellowhead Plant site. He worked on the plant for a number of years before going full circle back to the grader where it all began. He was well known for his big smile, positive energy, and work ethic. He was a well respected man — a mentor and a friend to all. He treated everyone around him with respect and kindness. Ronald officially retired at the age of 71, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and dedication.

Beyond his professional achievements, Ronald’s life was defined by his love of family, church, and community. Whether fixing cars for loved ones and neighbors, or donating surplus vegetables from his oversized retirement garden to the Strathcona Food Bank, Ronald’s generosity knew no bounds. He was a man of quiet strength, dedication, and kindness, touching the lives of everyone he met.

Funeral Mass

Friday, December 20, 2024, at 1:00 pm

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, 13 Brower Drive, Sherwood Park, AB

Reception following the Mass

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Strathcona Food Bank, a cause close to Ronald’s heart. They can be reached at 780-449-6413 or through their website strathconafoodbank.ca.

Ronald’s legacy will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and the many lives he impacted. He will be deeply missed.