Obituary of William "Bill" Charles Richardson

RICHARDSON: William Charles Richardson passed away peacefully on Monday, May 3, 2010. Bill was born in Calgary on December 28, 1917, the son of an RCMP officer. In his youth, his father's career took the family throughout Saskatchewan, and later to Halifax. After public school, Bill heard the calling of the RCMP and joined on April 1, 1937. He took his training at "N" Division Ottawa, and his first posting was to the Commissioners office support staff. In Ottawa, Bill met the love of his life, Isabel. Upon receiving his transfer orders to Manitoba, they ended their 5-year courtship on May 6, 1944 to begin 55 years of married life. After being posted to various detachments in Manitoba, they spent their last 10 years in Brandon, where Bill retired from the force on October 31, 1966. His post-retirement jobs in Brandon included Clerk of the Court and Security Chief at Simplot. In retirement, Bill and Isabel enjoyed summers at Victoria Beach, and winters at Pharr, Texas. Beginning with his RCMP training, Bill kept in good physical condition by participating in hockey, badminton, swimming, baseball, and even into his 80's curling, golf, and long daily walks. He took a very active part in the care and nurturing of his children and grandchildren, attending sporting events, school meetings, and was a really good play toy during the summers at Victoria Beach. Bill has always been known as a Gentleman, and a man with a Gentle Heart. He is survived by sister Irene Clare (Sydney, NS), sons Brian (Kay) and Ross (Judy), and daughter Anna (Biagio). Also by grandchildren Michael, Maria (Tim), Jennifer, Sara (Sean), and Andrew, great-grandchildren Emily and Kenzie, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife Isabel (1999), his parents, brothers Bruce and George, and sisters Dorothy and Ann. The family greatly appreciates the professional care, kindness, and compassion shown to our Father by the staff at Valleyview Care Centre. Funeral services will be held at the Brockie Donovan Chapel, 332-8th Street on Monday, May 10, 2010 at 2:30 p.m. with Rev. Jim Brown of St. George's Anglican Church officiating. Honorary Pallbearers will be members of the RCMP Veterans' Association. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.