Mr. Richard Ross Given, age 75, passed away peacefully on September 14, 2024, at St. Joseph Hospital after a 33-year battle with cancer.
Born on August 19, 1949 in Port Arthur to Norman and Agnes Given, Rick spent his youth in Current River attending Current River School and Lakeview High School.
In 1965, Rick caught the eye of Diane Lynn Phillips. They married on August 28, 1971. In 1974 they welcomed their first son, Mark, followed by a second son, Gregory in 1976.
Their years as a family of four were spent camping in various places, with the favourites being Blue Lake and Silver Islet. Rick was always there to lend a helping hand to his kids and would drop everything to help his sons with projects around their own homes. He truly was a jack of all trades.
Rick started his working career as a grain trimmer in Current River. He later moved to Abitibi Price for 25 years. Rick also briefly worked as a homebuilder, then moved on to Northern Woods. Rick finished his career at Fab Mar Metals before retiring at age 65.
Rick had many interests. These included coaching his boy’s hockey teams, gardening and hunting. His main interest, however, was woodworking. Often, he could be found in the garage working on projects for family and friends. If you thought about it and described it to Rick, he could bring it to life. Many beautiful pieces of furniture have found their way into the homes of family and friends.
There was never a man happier to be told he was going to be a grandpa! First, grandson Ethan in 2005, followed by granddaughters Rhys (2008) and Emmerson (2011).
He never missed an opportunity to brag about his grandkids or to tease and joke around with them. They truly were the light of his life.
Rick’s retirement years were spent visiting his son Mark and daughter in law Natalie in Ottawa, traveling with Diane, and summers at Silver Islet.
Rick is survived by his beautiful wife of 53 years, Diane. Son Mark (Natalie), presently here from Ottawa. Son Greg (Laurie) and grandchildren Ethan, Rhys and Emmerson. Sister Carol (John) Currie, sisters in law Brenda (Jack) Bisby, Wendy (Don) Caldwell, Eileen (Bernie)MacDonald and brother-in-law, Ron Phillips. Numerous nieces, nephews and cousins survive him.
Rick was predeceased by his parents, Norman and Agnes Given, In laws, Smith and Hilda Phillips, brothers in law, Leonard and Brian Philips and sister-in-law Carol Galon.
The family would like to thank Dr. Chan, Dr. Bezanson and Dr. Hagerty for their excellent care. We would also like to thank the nursing staff on 4 North at St. Joseph’s Hospice for their compassion and care. A very special thank you to his home care nurse Georgette, who he looked forward to visiting every day. We want to thank you for your compassion, care and friendship.
As per Rick’s wishes, there will be no service. A private family burial has taken place. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in his memory to Thunder Bay Regional Health Science Cancer Centre.
He will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Rest in peace, Rick.
