Richard Michael Treby

He left this world and traded it in for his wings on November 15, 2024 at the age of 72. Born in Vancouver, British Columbia to Cora and Ron Treby on September 5, 1952, the eldest of three, sibling to Barbara Lawrence and Margaret (Martin) Adamson, and half brother to Linda Sarsons. Rick leaves behind his loving wife, Jean, daughters Michelle (Brian) and Heather, grandchildren Owen, Faith, and Andrew and many other family and friends.

A devoted man of faith, Rick was a pillar of strength in his family and community. His deep belief in God and his commitment to his family and friends were the foundations upon which he built his life of service. As a longtime member of the Paramedics of BC, he found purpose in supporting, educating, and helping all who crossed his path. His hands and humour were a constant source of comfort and care for those in their most vulnerable moments, and his kindness left a lasting impact on many. His selflessness and acts of service were a reflection of his heart, which was full of love for his family and neighbours and community.

Rick was a passionate fisherman, finding peace and joy in the stillness of the waters... a place where he often took his family and friends to enjoy the beauty of nature. He enjoyed going camping, and took his family on many “adventures”. He also spent many years involved in the Abbotsford Air Force football club, as president and trainer, and many other roles - involving the whole family. Those who knew him, remember the countless days spent together, laughter filling the air as he enjoyed these activities.

He was a devoted husband to his wife, Jean, with whom he shared a bond built on faith and love, respect, and shared interest. Jean and Rick were able to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary just this last April, gathering with friends and family to celebrate their love. As a father to Michelle and Heather, he was a source of wisdom, guidance, unwavering love and support, and yes, constant teasing and laughter. He was always present to lift his children up in times of need.

But it was as a Papa that Rick truly shone. His three grandchildren, Owen, Faith, and Andrew– and grandpuppies too– were the light of his life and he poured endless love, joy, and time into each of them. He loved attending dance recitals, Christmas productions, taking the kids to the park, hockey games, making pancakes, and taking them for sleepovers. He made sure that every moment with them was filled with stories, adventures, ice cream, and an abundance of love.

Rick was always busy applying himself to many different jobs. He met his wife Jean while working in Kamloops as an orderly, moved to working as a travelling salesman while in Alberta, owning both a medical supply and dental supply business in Abbotsford, and finally to re-joining the Paramedics and Justice Institute for which he spent most of his career. In Chetwynd, when he was a unit chief for the BC ambulance, he also tried his hand successfully as a town council member. Before suffering a stroke while on Vancouver Island, he was a long-haul trailer driver, moving things across North America. He found pleasure in all of these occupations and was dedicated to doing his best.

Rick was a social butterfly, making friends wherever he went. He was deeply loved and appreciated by those from the churches he attended, the careers he had, and most recently from the stroke recovery group, 10-7, Cokely Manor Day Program, Promise Keepers group, and Bible study group he attended. He will be greatly missed, as he was always the life of the party, but also for the way he built a bond of friendship through stories and laughter with those around him.

Rick leaves behind a legacy of love and service and faith. While our hearts ache at his passing, we take comfort in knowing that he is now with our Heavenly Father, reunited with those who have gone before him. His memory and smile live on in the hearts of his wife, children, grandchildren, siblings, family, and all who were blessed to know him.

His celebration of life will be held at Parksville Baptist Church on December 14, 2024 at 2 PM where we will celebrate his life and honour the faith and love he shared with us all. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Parksville Stroke Recovery Group, (donations via e-transfer to [email protected]) a cause dear to our hearts.

Rest in peace and the arms of your Saviour, Rick. Your love, faith and spirit will live on in all of us. We will carry your legacy forward with the same devotion, strength, humour, and spirit for life that you showed us each day. “Well done, good and faithful servant.”