Richard was born on February 18, 1945 in Sprague Manitoba to Alban and Irene Griffiths. The Griffiths family moved to Atikokan in 1957 where Richard made his home and raised his family for the remainder of his years. He graduated from the Atikokan High School becoming an electrical apprentice under Frank Quinn and went on to work at the Steep Rock and Caland iron mines before eventually joining Pluswood, later named Proboard. He remained there in a managerial position until its closure. Richard stayed busy serving the community of Atikokan as Reeve and Councilor for many years and providing maintenance support to the Atikokan Daycare and Riverside Seniors building, as helping others would remain his passion until his passing.
Richards loved ones will remember him as selfless; a private man with a vast knowledge base who could find solutions to anything he set his mind to, and a person who would help anyone in need without hesitation. He was someone who woke up each and every day with a purpose and was known by most as a ‘Jack of all Trades’. There wasn’t anything that he couldn’t fix given enough research, and he was always more than willing to share what he’d learned with others, which included the history of Atikokan. He worked diligently to ensure those around him felt comfortable in his presence and mentored others through his incredible work ethic. He enjoyed time spent hunting, fishing, restoring old vehicles, renovating homes, and spending time with his grandchildren who brought him great joy and pride. His greatest accomplishments in life consisted of the time he spent with family; sharing his knowledge, watching and helping them succeed, and sharing in their experiences throughout their lives. He loved his family who meant everything to him and he made it known through his actions until the end.
He will be greatly missed by his spouse Alice Morton; children Shawna Griffiths and Kevin Griffiths; stepdaughters Mabel Morin, Lillian Morin and Susanne McDowell; siblings William (Lorraine) Griffiths, Elayne Vinet, Gail (John) Cooper and Robert Griffiths (Rosa); granddaughters Stephanie and Caitlyn Griffiths; as well as seven step-grandchildren, four step great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Richard was predeceased by his parents Alban and Irene Griffiths and sister Violet Betz.
Cremation has taken place and a private family interment will be held.
If friends so desire in memoriam donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, 1093 Barton Street, Thunder Bay, ON, P7B 5N3.
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