Richard Elwin Earl

Rich was born in Calgary on March 2nd, 1951 to parents Edith and George Earl. He was brought up in a loving family and learned his life values of kindness, generosity and integrity from his parents.

As a young man Rich joined Scouts Canada and later became a youth leader with the organization. After graduating from the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology he spent most of his career as an electronics technician at the University of Calgary.

Rich met his wife, Gill, in the early seventies. They shared a mutual interest in the outdoors and loved hiking, camping and cross-country skiing. They enjoyed international travelling, including many trips to Southern England to visit Gill’s family.

Rich could fix anything, including a broken-down Land Rover, in the middle of nowhere, while on safari in Africa. One person once commiserated with Gill saying that she would never have anything new because Rich could always fix whatever went wrong.

After retiring in 2007 Rich and Gill moved to the Comox Valley and happily adapted to their new coastal environment. They made many friends through Newcomers, bridge groups and their neighborhood. Rich had many hobbies, including metal working, carpentry and bridge. He loved to tinker with cars and spent many hours restoring an old sports car.

Most of all, he loved helping other people. He could always be counted on to lend a hand. He was a quiet, generous, patient and gentle man, who will be lovingly remembered.

Rich and Gill have been so thankful for all the support they have received from everyone throughout Rich’s treatment for leukemia. We especially would like to thank Dr. Lamykina for her exceptional concern and care. We would also like to thank the staff on Unit 3C at the Comox Valley Hospital for their kindness and compassion.

A private celebration of Rich’s life will be held by his family. Please join us in remembering Rich by visiting his memorial at www.piercysmtwashingtonfuneral.com.

He will be greatly missed. May he rest in the peace he so richly deserves.