Joseph Elmer Richard, known as 'Spud' passed away in Abbotsford Regional Hospital and Cancer Center on July 29, 2014 at the age of 87. Spud was born in Duvar, PEI on November 13, 1927 to Frank and Cecelia Richard. He was the oldest of 6 children. He is survived by his loving wife Louise of 63 years, beloved brother Leonard (Jean) and sister Shirley, and sister-in-law Hazel, predeceased by his parents and sister Rita and brothers Reggie and Francis, brothers-in-law Joe, Alyre Richard and Alyre Gallant and sister-in-law Isabel.
Spud left home at the age of 16 and enlisted in the Canadian Armed Forces in 1943. After 5 months they found out his true age and discharged him. He was very adventurous. After his short stay in the army he went to Ontario but didn't like it there. He then moved to B.C. and worked on an oil tanker for several years, which took him to many places including South America, then back to P.E.I where he met Louise & married her in January 1950. He brought his new bride back to B.C. where he worked for several years in the lumber industry operating and repairing heavy duty machinery. Later he changed his profession and drove for B.C. transit for 32 years. In his spare time he built 3 boats, all named after his wife, and enjoyed cruising the ocean waters. They sold their home in Vancouver and retired in Abbotsford 25 years ago. He made many new friends at Kingsview Estates through Saturday morning coffees, special dinner events and lawn chair visits in the garage. Spud was a lover of cars, boats, chocolate bars and Tim Horton donuts.
Prayers will be on August 6th at 7:00 pm at St. Ann's Catholic Church and Funeral Mass will be held at St. Ann's Catholic Church on August 7th at 11:00 am, 33333 Mayfair Avenue, Abbotsford, B.C.