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December 30, 2018
The family of Richard (Rick) Olson would like to share the news of his passing from this life to the next, on December 30th, 2018 in Glacier View Lodge Courtenay, from complications of dementia.

Richard lived a beautiful life full of adventure, connections with people, love of his family and friends and pursuit of interests, education, and opportunities to make this world a better place.

Richard loved travel and explored the world with a keen eye for how we were all so different yet so connected. He had a passion for education, and spent a career as a teacher and administrator helping young people and educators open eyes, open minds and open hearts. Richard loved nature and was at peace and enjoyed chopping wood, building trails and building gardens. He was an avid athlete in his day, and continued to enjoy following the Jays, the Canucks and the Lions late in life.

In giving back to this world, Richard gave his time and energy to organizations like the Canadian Cancer Society, and the Lakelse Lake Watershed Society. Later in life as he was diagnosed with dementia, he offered his leadership to the Alzheimer's Society, and "Minds in Motion" program to show others there is life after a dementia diagnosis. He was named the 2017 honouree for the "Walk for Alzheimer's and Dementia". Richard and Melanie developed many friendships through this program and are grateful for that loving support. His biggest impact most notably was the support he showed to his grandchildren in times of need, opening his heart and his home to support them and love them.

Richard is survived by his wife of 33 years Melanie, 3 children, Dean (Carmen), Carrie and Cindy, step children Trevor (Sabine) and Tracy (Greg), 7 grandchildren , Mitchell (Paige),Kaitlynn, Justin, Ashley, Jackson, Helena, Lianna, and 3 great grandchildren, Indie, Mabyn, and Zayda, his brother Albert(Holly) and sister MaryAnn (Fred) and their families, as well as an extensive network of extended family. He was predeceased by his parents Patricia and Arthur Olson.

Richard's wife, soulmate and best friend Melanie will feel the biggest loss in his passing. Together they shared all of life's joys and sorrows, all of life's adventures and all day to day mundane activities that make up life as a couple. Beautiful memories and the knowledge that Richard lived a life well-lived will sustain Melanie until they are reunited in the next life.

If you would like to share memories of Richard or send condolences, a facebook page "In Loving Memory of Richard Olson" has been set up to gather thoughts and best wishes to share with his friends and family.

The family would like to acknowledge the amazing, loving, compassionate and respectful care Richard received from the staff at Glacier View Lodge during his time there and continuing into his palliative care and support to Melanie and his family.

In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Alzheimer's society in Richard's name would be appreciated .



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