William "Rick" Frederick Leipert

It is with immense sadness that we announce that Rick passed away at home on December 6, 2023. Rick will be remembered for his integrity, kindness, thirst for knowledge, ingenuity, ready smile, ability to fix anything and for his love and devotion to his family. He is survived by: Marguerite, his heartbroken wife of 63 years; daughters Shelley (Glen) and Pam (Jack); grandchildren Brent (Janna), Sean, Cameron (Leah), Brendan and Laine; great grandchildren Liliana and Alastair; sister, Linda, and many in-laws, nieces and nephews.

Rick was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba to William (Bill) and Ida Leipert. He moved with his family to B.C. when he was a child and settled in Coquitlam. Rick was always a hard worker, he had several jobs before starting a career as a Broadcast Engineer and Instructor at BCIT, where he enjoyed working with students and colleagues and developed many friendships that he maintained for the rest of his life.

He met Marguerite ice skating in New Westminster and they fell in love and got married on January 29, 1960. Rick affectionately called Marguerite “Gorgeous” for their entire marriage. They bought a home on Pasture Circle in Coquitlam, and filled this home with laughter and family, creating beautiful memories for 49 years. The family pool was a favourite and was often filled with splashing, giggling children, nieces, nephews and later grandchildren. Marg and Rick were an amazing couple and team, they thoroughly enjoyed each other’s company, his absence has left a hole in Marguerite’s heart that will never be mended.

Rick was always building, designing or fixing something. He was an electronics expert, mechanic, electrician, plumber, inventor, ham radio operator, home brewer, and woodworker but most of all he was an incredible husband, Dad, Grandpa and Great Grandpa. His family was everything to him.

After he retired, Rick and Marg walked every morning in Mundy Park and met many people who became their “park friends”. He had an authentic interest in people and he enjoyed learning new things about them and their families. Rick loved trains. His attention to detail and perfectionism showed in the stunning layout that he built and spent many happy hours tinkering with.

In 2016 Marg and Rick made the difficult decision to downsize and move to the Shoreline community in Pitt Meadows. Rick said many times how happy he was with that decision. The incredible friends and neighbours that they met in their complex and while out walking along the river were so important to him and remain an incredible support to Marguerite.

As one friend said “Rick was always the same Rick”, he was genuine, steadfast and honest. He will be forever loved and missed. A Celebration of Life will be held later this year.