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Richard Charles Illingworth

December 11, 2022

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December 11, 2022
In loving memory ~
Richard Charles Illingworth, 73, of Saltspring Island passed away on December 11th, 2022.
Richard is predeceased by his parents Dick and Audrey. He is survived by his children Christy (Mike) and Jake (Pamela); his grandchildren Tyler, Jessica and Leo; siblings Jeannie (Chris), Lois (Dave), Carol (Greg) and Jim; nieces and nephews Laura, Bonnie, Mackenzie, Kevin and Keith.
Richard, who always went by Ritch ("don't forget the t") was born in 1949. He grew up in North Vancouver and graduated from Carson Graham Secondary in 1967. He worked with the City of North Vancouver until the age of 23 when he moved with his young family to Prince Rupert to work with the Canadian Coast Guard. Working away from home on the Coast Guard wasn't easy for Ritch, so he took a job with Acklands in Prince Rupert. In 1975 he moved to Campbell River and continued his career at Acklands. Ritch loved exploring new places and meeting new people so his time as a travelling salesman was memorable for him.
Ritch took his role as a father seriously and together with his wife of 20 years, Poppy, raised Christy and Jake in Campbell River. He loved sports, playing rugby in his early years (even winning rookie of the year) and coaching the kids in minor softball. He also loved camping, fishing, reading and was a master at chess. He was a great gardener and loved his time in his yard tending the veggies, playing badminton and hanging out with friends.
After his time in Campbell River Ritch enjoyed island life on Saltspring where his parents lived. He worked as a painter and enjoyed the kind community on the island.
Ritch loved his family and friends and was always up for a good discussion on sports, politics, or social issues. He was curious, loved learning and always had a newspaper by his side including in his final days. The next time you read a newspaper and ponder the world, think of Ritch.
A memorial will be held in the spring.
In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Victoria Hospitals Foundation: https://www.victoriahf.ca/
Ritch's family is grateful to everyone at the Saltspring Hospital and Victoria General for all the care over the years, particularly during his final days.



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