Obituary of Ronald William Richards

Ronald “Ron” Richards
February 16, 1940 – May 29, 2025

With our hearts heavy, we regret to announce the passing of Ron Richards, who departed this life on May 29, 2025, at the age of 85. Ron was not only a man of integrity, resilience, and unwavering service, but also a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend to many.

Ron was born on February 16, 1940, in Timmins, Ontario, to Ray and Violet Richards. He was steeped in rural roots on a small farm outside Wawa, Ontario, with his two siblings, Jack and Lola. Fueled by his passion for aviation and dedication to service, Ron joined the Royal Canadian Air Force at just 19, with dreams of becoming a fighter pilot. When he learned he was colour-blind and unable to fly, he gracefully redirected his efforts to find meaningful ways to support and positively impact the pilots he admired.

While stationed in Europe, he met his future wife, Carol, who also served in the RCAF. They later married and welcomed their first son, Derrick, while posted in West Germany.

After returning to Canadian soil as a married man and father, he was stationed at CFB Downsview in Toronto. Not long after, the couple welcomed two more children, Dick and Kim, into their family. Ron then found his calling in the military and made notable contributions to the Institute of Aviation Medicine and the National Defence Research Laboratories in the fields of medical and scientific aviation research. Achieving, at least in part, what his 19-year-old self set out to do—helping save more pilots’ lives in emergency situations. His research and contributions led to an honorable discharge in 1970.

A passionate lifelong learner, Ron furthered his education at the University of Toronto, the University of Saskatchewan, and Northland Open University, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Science, a Certificate in Hospital Administration, and a Bachelor of Administration with distinction.

His career was defined by a commitment to public service, particularly in healthcare administration.  Ron served as the hospital administrator in Hornepayne, Ontario, for nine years before relocating to Alberta. During this time, he also founded the Canadian College of Health Care Executives. In Alberta, he became the Executive Director of Stettler Hospital, serving from 1981 to 1994. In the early 1990s, his leadership was further recognized when he was asked to oversee two additional hospitals facing operational challenges, alongside his role at Stettler. He concluded his distinguished career with his retirement in 1996 as Regional Director – Corporate Services.

Even in retirement, Ron remained active and hungry to develop himself.  He tried his hand in real estate, worked as a guard at the RCMP station, delivered Vital Air oxygen, and ran a house-sitting service—always finding new ways to stay engaged and remain a pillar of his community.

Ron’s passion for serving his community extended beyond his distinguished career. He was an active member of the Masonic Lodge, serving as a past Worshipful Master, and a proud member and past president of the Stettler Rotary Club—always seeking ways to contribute meaningfully wherever he lived.

Ron is remembered not only for his professionalism and sharp mind, but also for his warmth, quick wit, and the mischievous grin after a great joke.  He was one part stoic and one part sparkle—serious when needed, but never taking himself too seriously. A good friend to many, you would find him every Wednesday evening at “Ron’s Bar and Grill”—his garage—where he hosted poker night for a close group of great friends.

Ron is lovingly remembered by his daughter Kim (Bob) and by his daughter-in-law Kim (predeceased by her husband, Derrick). He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Nova (Ryan), Devon (Amie), Lyndon (Barrett), Cody (Emma), Brandon, Lucas, Tyson (Hope), Kenya (Mark), and Sam (Ash); and his treasured great-grandchildren, Foster and Blakely. Ron is also survived by his brother Jack, sister Lola (Frank), and many loving nieces and nephews.

Ron was predeceased by his beloved wife, Carol; his sons, Derrick and Dick; his grandchild, Jaden; and his parents, Ray and Violet.

Ron’s legacy is one of community impact, warm kindness, stoic service, vast intellect, and quick humor.

He will be deeply missed and forever memorialized by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Celebration of Life

Monday, June 9, 2025 at 1:00 P.M.

Stettler Funeral Home, Stettler, Alberta

Donations in memory of Ron are gratefully accepted to the Stettler Health Services Foundation, Postal Bag 500, Stettler, Alberta or to The Royal Canadian Legion Branch#59, P.O. Box 280, Stettler, Alberta. Stettler Funeral Home & Crematorium entrusted with the care and funeral arrangements 403-742-3422.