Richard David Oleski

Mr. Richard David Oleski, age 90 years, passed away peacefully in Southbridge Pinewood on Wednesday, November 3, 2021.

Richard's quiet and warm personality was felt by all who knew him. He was loved and admired for being a kind, loyal, responsible man. Family was the most important part of Richard's life; he was deeply committed to being a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He selflessly went out of his way to be generous, helpful, and hardworking, particularly in support and adoration of his wife, Shirley. His children and grandchildren quickly became the center of his focus, always willing to lend a hand or spend quality time with them, bringing smiles to their faces with his gentle demeanor. Many special memories with "Dad" and "Gramps" will forever be cherished.

Richard's support of his family extended into community service, volunteering for a number of local organizations. He was a Cub (Akela) and Scout leader with Boys Scouts of Canada, coached Westfort Little League baseball, was a Royal Canadian Air Cadets leader, and coach/marker for the Youth Bowling Council.

From an early age, Richard was an avid sportsman. In high school, he was a member of the senior varsity basketball, badminton, and rugby teams and served as the Vice President of the Boys' Athletic Society at Fort William Vocational School. After graduation, his love of sports extended to hockey, where he served as a coach for the Fort William Minor Hockey Association. He later became a decorated bowler and avid golfer. He fondly looked forward to being the first off the tee with his regular foursome every Sunday morning: "It never rains on the golf course!"

Richard was strong in his Christian faith, and was proud to be a longtime member of St Thomas Anglican Church where he served as a sidesman for many years.

He was a member of the Royal Order of the Moose and Toastmasters International, but his most prized time was spent as a member of the Lakehead Antique Car Club. Richard enjoyed every opportunity to share his beloved, personally-restored 1947 Chevrolet Stylemaster with fellow automobile enthusiasts. His passion for cars was also reflected in his longtime career as a parts manager in the automotive and trucking industries.

Richard loved country and western music, and another one of his favourite pastimes was dancing. He and Shirley were exceptional dancers, featured with the Harmony Hoedowners and St. Thomas Twirlers Square Dance Clubs.

He will be lovingly remembered by Shirley, his wife of 63 years, sons Richard (Amy) and Randall (Suzanne), daughter Sherill (Bob) and grandchildren Ryan (Chantal), Gabrielle, Calvin, Tyler and Brianne, as well as by nieces and other relatives.

He was predeceased by his parents Stephen and Jean Oleski, mother-in-law and father-in-law Reta and John Mintenko, brother Anthony, sister-in-law Shirley and granddaughter Ariana.

Funeral services for Richard Oleski will be held on Saturday, Nov. 13, 2021 at 11:00 am at St. Thomas Anglican Church, officiated by the Rev. Jonathan Blanchard. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens.

As directed by the Province of Ontario and the Bereavement Authority of Ontario, COVID protocols are still being applied in group settings. Capacity is limited to allow for social distancing of 6 feet, a record of attendance must be maintained and wearing of masks or face coverings by everyone is mandatory for those attending the services.

As expressions of sympathy, donations may be made in memory of Richard to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, the Kidney Foundation of Canada or the charity of your choice.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Westfort Chapel, 420 West Gore Street at James.