December 6, 2024
It is with great sadness the family of Donald Allan Richards announce his passing on December 6th, 2024. Don passed away peacefully in his home, at the age of 83.
Don was predeceased by his first wife Mary Anne (nee Schwab).
He is lovingly survived by his second wife Grace (nee Nelson), brother David, sister Pat, his children Don Jr., Michelle, Jeff, Karl, and Colin; his stepchildren Carol, John and Chris; and his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Don had a robust career spanning 50 plus years, starting as a chef, with his highlight of preparing dinner for Queen Elizabeth. As his family grew, he started in the trades as a millwright and machinist, eventually leading him to Engineering.
Don excelled with project management and travelled the province overseeing a multitude of BC infrastructure and construction projects, culminating into his management in the construction of Disney and Universal Studios theme park rides.
One of his proudest accomplishments was the construction of the Trans Canada Trail Marker heads. Don leaves behind a legacy through his dedication to his work that will be remembered and cherished by many.
We will respect Don's wishes, that there will be no service, however there will be a small family gathering at a later date.
We would like to thank the many doctors and nurses of Oliver and Penticton Hospitals for their wonderful and compassionate care shown to Don over these past few years, and to the wonderful friends and neighbours who reached out and assisted Don and Grace as well.
Memorial donations may be made to the BC Heart and Stroke Foundation.