4-Nov-1936 - 2-Mar-2024
With heavy hearts, we bid farewell to our cherished husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, and friend, Bernard Joseph Richard, affectionately known as Butch. Born in River Hebert, Nova Scotia, Butch peacefully passed away on March 2, 2024, at the age of 87, surrounded by his loving family at Southlake Regional Hospital in Newmarket, Ontario.
Butch's memory will forever be held dear by his devoted wife of 60 years, June Richard, his children: Darlene, Darren (Janet Soulliere), Sylvia (Mike McCluskey), Alissa (Steve Dahan), and Alana. He will be deeply missed by his grandchildren: Shaun (Tammy), Christopher, Michael, Sierra, Ryan, Sarah, Justin, Sylvia (Darragh), Joshua, Renee and Matthew as well as his great-grandchildren: Teigan, Katelyn, Mila, and Charlotte. He is survived by his brother Larry, and sisters Sylvia, Jeanne (Bill), and Joan. Butch is preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Georgina and his sisters Carolyn and Gloria. He will be fondly remembered by numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
Butch found immense joy in spending time with his family, indulging in his passion for fishing and the outdoors. His profound love for children, animals, and nature was evident in every aspect of his life. He took great pleasure in watching his children and grandchildren grow, often sharing his appreciation for nature through long walks in the forests, fishing trips, and outdoor adventures. Renowned for his captivating storytelling, Butch's lively spirit and endless anecdotes brought joy to all who knew him.
Butch's journey with June began 66 years ago in a downtown Toronto diner, where he found his soulmate and followed her from coast to coast. Their love was a testament to unwavering commitment and devotion, inspiring all who witnessed it.
A Visitation to Celebrate Butch's life will be held on Sunday, March 10, 2024 at Taylor Funeral Home in Newmarket, Ontario 647-490-2892 from 1:00p.m. – 3:00p.m. (viewing) Funeral Service at 3:00p.m. Reception to follow.
The family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to the staff and nurses at Southlake Regional Healthcare in Newmarket for their compassionate care and support during Butch's final days.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Butch's honor may be made to The Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund, dedicated to supporting Indigenous reconciliation initiatives. Butch was a staunch advocate for Truth and Reconciliation, standing in solidarity with his wife, June, who bravely shared her experiences as a survivor of the residential school system. He believed passionately in the importance of acknowledging and addressing the injustices of the past for a better future.