In Loving Memory of
Richard Dennis
RUSHTON
1939 - 2009
Richard Dennis Rushton of Clearwater, BC passed away on October 17, 2009 at Dr. Helmcken Memorial Hospital, Clearwater, after a brave battle with lung cancer. He was 70 years of age. Left to mourn his passing are Richard’s loving wife of 31 years, Michelle; daughters Nicole Rushton (Jasen), Holly Rushton (Marshall) and Pamela (David) Keith; son Richard (Barb) Rushton Jr. (Den boy); grandchildren Natasha, Stephanie, Amber, Jessica, Jeremy, Gabrielle, and Richard’s great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his father, William Angus Rushton; his mother Hilda Rushton; brothers, Russell Rushton of Oxford Jct., NS, Carman Rushton of Oxford, NS; and sisters Helen Austin of Clearwater and Josephine Gordon of Oxford.
Born February 9, 1939 in Oxford, Nova Scotia, Richard left his hometown at the age of 17 after a beloved childhood with loving parents and seven siblings. He often reminisced about his very fond childhood memories, and we all loved to listen to him tell stories of memorable events with his siblings. He sure loved his roots!
Richard joined the Canadian Armed Forces, R.C.H.A. in Toronto, Ontario, and was in the army from 1957-1959. He served as Gunner in Canada and Germany. Richard acquired many skills while serving; he often spoke of the jump course he took. He loved it, and he truly valued the time he served.
After leaving the army Richard married and had a family with two children. His work history was quite diverse -- from highway construction to various trades. Richard embraced challenge and sought novelty in the workplace.
Richard left Ontario in his late thirties and moved to Yellowknife, NWT, where he started a new family with Michelle and worked mainly as a professional painter. In the mid 1980’s Richard and his family moved to the peaceful town of Clearwater, BC where he held several mill jobs. But people in the North Thompson Valley may remember him mostly as a painter/carpenter with Richard’s Contracting. In his later years he also worked with Michelle doing highway maintenance.
Richard loved the horse races and it was always a dream to one day own quarter horses. He also enjoyed throwing a game of horseshoes or going bowling with Michelle and the girls. He also enjoyed his time out in the yard, preparing the garden or raking the leaves; he found it so peaceful. In the evening there was always time kept for CNN and the latest global news. Richard also loved trips to Las Vegas and Hawaii. He was kind, gentle and loving with a great sense of humour. And he always found the good in everyone. Richard loved children and had a special nurturing touch for babies.
A memorial service for Richard Rushton was held on Friday, October 23, 2009 at the Royal Canadian Legion, Clearwater, BC. Lloyd Strickland officiated. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Dr. Helmcken Memorial Hospital, 640 Park Drive, RR1, Clearwater, BC, or to the Children`s Wish Foundation, 119 – 4240 Manor St., Burnaby, BC, V5G 1B2. Funeral arrangements entrusted to North Thompson Funeral Services, Clearwater, BC, telephone 250-674-3030.