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With sad hearts, the family of George William Richards of Castlegar wishes to announce his passing at Castleview Care Centre on Saturday, September 21, 2013, blessed with

87 years of life.


George was born in London, England on May 31, 1926 to parents Ethel and Thomas Richards. He grew up in Toronto and moved to Trail in his early 20’s. In Trail, George met and on September 17, 1955 married Mila Makay, who was the center of his world. He was extremely proud of his 5 children and 12 grandchildren.


George was employed as a computer technician with IBM for 40 years, based at Cominco. He was an electrician by training and a self-taught carpenter, mechanic, machinist and welder. In addition George would study, learn and excel at anything that caught his interest, including photography, biology, microbiology, chemistry and geology.


He had a keen interest in social justice issues and was a human rights activist. He worked as a member of organizations including Amnesty International, KRUNA and Development and Peace. George was also a strong supporter of women’s equality. He made a difference to the lives of indigenous people in developing nations, through Teardrop Crafts.


George loved the natural world and provided the opportunity for his children and grandchildren to experience it. He passed on his love of the natural world to his children and grandchildren by spending time on Kootenay Lake and by providing the cabin at Proctor.


He was predeceased by his brother John Richards of Ottawa.


Left to mourn his loss is his loving wife of 58 years Mila; his children, Gregory (Joanne) Richards, Louise (Fraser) Stewart, Beatrice (Gordon) Bibby, Timothy (Alix) Richards and Shirley (John) Amaral; grandchildren, Matthew, Andrew, and Rebecca Richards, Mary and James Stewart, Claire, Helen and Graham Bibby, Anton and Sabine Richards and Philip and Genevieve Amaral; extended family and many friends and acquaintances.


Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated by Father David John at St. Rita’s Catholic Church on Saturday, September 28, 2013 followed by interment in Park Memorial Cemetery.


Donations in George’s memory may be made to KRUNA, Doctors Without Borders or Oxfam.


Arrangements were in care of Castlegar Funeral Chapel.



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