It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of our brother, father, grandfather and friend.

Richard was born in Prince Albert to Bertha and Alex Elchuk and raised on the family farm near Shipman. He was the second youngest of six children and was the third generation of his family to farm the same land. He first got on a tractor at age 7 and juggled his farm chores with his schooling. As a teenager, Richard was part of the crew that built Highway 55, the same road he took to get to school.

To say that Richard was a jack-of-all-trades would definitely be an understatement! Beyond the family farm, he also enjoyed working with and maintaining big steel. He was a skilled operator that could run any piece of equipment he approached.

Our dad had such a big spirit. If he knew you, you were likely bestowed with a nickname for life! He would always be looking to entertain people with his unique sense of humour. He had so many stories to tell that it would be very rare that he would actually tell you the same one twice.

Ready to offer hunting advice and tips, Richard was an avid hunter and fisherman with a passion for the outdoors. During his formative years, he would be part of a rink at every curling tournament there was in the area.

Richard’s family grew in 2017 and he was able to meet his grandson, Rowan. He had immense joy from being a grandfather, even in his most challenging days. All you would have to do is mention his grandson and his eyes would light up.

His wit and gift of gab will be missed by the nurses and staff that cared for him at Mont St. Joseph’s Home. Our unending thanks to you all for the care you offered him over the past couple years.

Fond memories will forever remain with his daughters, Kerri (Terry) Reimer and Shannon Elchuk; son, Dean Elchuk; and grandsons, Rowan and Brody Reimer; sisters, Phyllis (Marty) Schmidt of Red Deer, AB, Linda (Guy) Erickson of Sechelt, BC, Helen (Bill) Binnie of North Vancouver, BC, and Olga (Pierre) Harvey of Saskatoon, SK; and brother-in-law, Gervin Simons of Nipawin, SK. He will also be eternally celebrated by his nieces, nephews, cousins and long-time friends he had hunted and fished with throughout the years. Richard was predeceased by his parents, Bertha and Alex Elchuk; his sister, Eva Simons; and a number of aunts, uncles and cousins.

A private family service will be held on his birthday, June 1^st, to celebrate his life. We welcome those who are grieving to cast a line at your favourite lake this summer in remembrance of Richard.

Family and friends wishing to send online condolences are welcome to visit www.beaulacfuneralhome.com.  Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Beau “Lac” Funeral Home, Marianne Turcotte, Funeral Director, Prince Albert, SK 306-763-3322.

• Date : 2021-03-18
• Location : Prince Albert, SK