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Andrea McLellan and Andrey & Lucy Fedoroff posted a condolence
Saturday, February 5, 2022
Dear Jan, we were so surprised and saddened to hear the news of David’s passing. We are holding you in our hearts and sending love. Andrea, Andrey & Lucy
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Bedford Trio posted a condolence
Thursday, May 6, 2021
Dear Dave's Family,
We are the Bedford Trio, a classical music ensemble based in Toronto. Dave and we met at the 2019 Toronto Summer Music. After our lunchtime concert at Heliconian Hall, he came to backstage to chat with us. Although we only had that one encounter, our hearts were immediately warmed by his kindness and generosity. Later, Dave published his review of our concert, for which we are forever grateful. We are tremendously saddened by the news of his passing. Sending our deepest condolences to you and may he continue to enjoy music up there!
Stay healthy and well,
Jialiang, Alessia, Andrew of Bedford Trio
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Gail Harrison posted a condolence
Tuesday, March 2, 2021
How very sorry I am to hear of the passing of Dave. He touched the lives of many of us who were associated with specialized arts programmes in Ontario schools. We met when the International NETWORK of Performing and Visual Arts Schools decided to hold their 1991 conference in Toronto, first time outside the USA. For 4 days in October both staff and students from 7 schools in 5 different Boards of Education were involved, either in planning, presenting workshops or performing. Also, guest speakers were included from the Ontario Institute of Education; Canada Council; a researcher of talented young people; and Michael Burgess who was currently performing in Les Miserables. When I think back to those days I see Dave as always being calm and serene amid the sometimes chaotic moments. In less hectic times I had the pleasure of spending a week sailing with Jan and Dave in the Bahamas as well as one cold, wintery overnight in a cabin north of Toronto. My sincere condolences to Jan and family.
Gail Harrison
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Richard Fischer posted a condolence
Monday, March 1, 2021
My sincerest condolences for the untimely passing of Dave. I only knew him through the wonderful home concerts that he and Jan hosted but it was easy to see that he clearly was a person full of warmth, intelligence and passion for many things. I hope that the good memories of his many activities and contributions will sustain Jan and the rest of his family through this difficult time.
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Friedrich Speidel uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, February 25, 2021
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Michael Strizic posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 24, 2021
I'm very sorry to learn of David's passing. Mr. Richards was headmaster during my time at Kingsway College School in the 1990s. I remember him as a kind soul, a passionate educator, and a champion of the arts. He brought a fledgling music program to the school and nurtured it diligently, ushering in a lifelong passion for me. I remember him taking my class on for an impromptu project of designing and building scale models of world-cup sailboats — from scratch — just because he thought it was neat. I don't remember a lot of my younger school days, but I still have that sailboat. He always made me feel special, seen, and valued. Not a bad impact for a headmaster not even assigned to a class.
Thanks, David.
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Clare Carberry posted a condolence
Tuesday, February 23, 2021
Dave, I feel so privileged to have known you all these years. I always admired your loyalty and love as a husband, a father and grandfather. You appreciated and treasured family time. The consummate gentleman, you moved through life with thoughtfulness for others, always a source of strength and support. The passion you brought to your work as an educator touched and inspired so many lives and so many hearts; and you continued to inspire with the integrity and verve you brought to your own projects, whether they be in the arts or in the incredible challenges you undertook as an athlete.
You have been loved in life, and will be loved and missed in death. Rest in Peace Dave.
Clare and Family
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Paul Merkley posted a condolence
Friday, February 19, 2021
I knew David as an intelligent, gentle, generous, affable, easy-going, knowledgeable, sensitive, active, forward-looking man, who cared deeply about his family and had a continuing commitment to music and to young people, especially to young musicians. He was a terrific friend. High school teacher and principal, concert reviewer, my partner in piano four hands and two-piano music, these were just some of the things he did, always with good humour and his kind, easygoing nature. He and Jan opened their house to so many of us for lovely house concerts, giving young performers a good, supportive environment in which to display their musical talents and achievements, and very many did. He was encouraging of every honest effort. When I accompanied him to concerts, he seemed to know so many people, and it was no surprise that everyone liked him, and was glad he had come. Sometimes for reviews, we decided to conquer, and each of us reviewed some of the pieces performed. I don't think you could tell who wrote which sections in those cases.
He had the consciousness of the best kind of teacher: dedicated, prepared, nimble, and always, always encouraging. Neither of us had time during our working lives to play the piano as much as we would have liked; we both enjoyed playing together, whether at our weekly rehearsals, or our occasional performances. I missed him very much during COVID. I know he home schooled his grandchildren, and they got the best teacher possible. I miss him now. I think he must be somewhere playing music and going to concerts. I miss you, David.
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PHILIP RICHARDS posted a condolence
Thursday, February 18, 2021
Brother:
You gave no one a last Farewell nor ever said Good-bye
You were gone before we knew it and only God knows why.
A million times we'll miss you A million times we we'll cry
If love alone could have saved you you never would have died.
In life we love you dearly in death we love you still
In our hearts you hold a place no one else can fill.
It broke our hearts to lose you but you didn't go alone
For part of us went with you, the day God took you home.
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The family of David Roy Richards uploaded a photo
Wednesday, February 17, 2021
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Please wait
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Olya, Marco and Sofia de Andrade posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 17, 2021
Dear Jan, please accept our deepest condolences. We hope David’s love and healing energy will carry you through these difficult times. Sincerely, Olya, Sofia and Marco
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Family uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, February 17, 2021
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Brian & Pamela Docksteader & Family posted a condolence
Monday, February 15, 2021
We would like to express our deepest sympathy to Janice and the Richards family on the passing of Dave. Dave was a very important part of the Docksteader family and never failed to amaze us with his knowledge, talents, humour and enthusiasm for life. We especially remember the great time we had in Calgary in May 2018 at Nationals when Dave received four gold medals, two bronze medals and a fourth place finish. He was so excited and weighed down with all the hardware! We are grateful for all the happy times we had with Dave and Janice and we will miss him greatly. Our hearts and prayers go out to all of you from Brian, Pamela, Ryan, Kristina, Mark, Sonia, Ashley and Andy and families. We love you.
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Sylvia and Ben Olson posted a condolence
Monday, February 15, 2021
Jan, we are so glad we got to meet you and Dave, and become good friends when you were sailing "Siggy's Dancer" in the Bahamas. We're also glad that you have kept in touch through the following years. Dave was a remarkable guy, so accomplished in so many areas. His achievements in swimming, and his excellence as a musician and a teacher, are such inspirations. Dave's open heart and positive spirit will shine on through all the people he touched. We wish peace and comfort to you, and to all of Dave's family and dear friends. We love you!
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laurie mitchell posted a condolence
Monday, February 15, 2021
Dave lived a life of accomplishments - large and small. His accomplishments were based on his beliefs. He believed in family, in love, in music, in adventure, in sport, in travel, in friendship, in listening,in learning and in conversation. It was always a pleasure to be in his company. I am so sorry to have to say good-bye to a person who accomplished so much in such a gentle and quiet manner. My sincere condolences to Jan and to Dave's children and grandchildren.
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Sungeun choi lit a candle
Sunday, February 14, 2021
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Saeyoon Chon lit a candle
Sunday, February 14, 2021
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Pam and Larry Tuff uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, February 14, 2021
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Robyn Meagher uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, February 14, 2021
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Robyn Meagher uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, February 14, 2021
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Robyn Meagher uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, February 14, 2021
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Dave with friends(Robyn and Jason) on he and Jan's 25th Anniversary in Victoria
Dave’s passion for excellence across athletics, music and education were inspiring. It was a delight to converse with Dave on subjects of human potential, excellence, community and culture. What touched us the most about Dave, was knowing of Dave and what we felt in the presence of others who knew Dave better in his place of service and his various rules. The palpable sense of respect and gratitude for his mentoring spoke of a rich legacy of caring and impact. His inspiration as a leader will live on in all of our hearts who were so fortunate to have been touched by his life. Jan and family wishing you peace and comfort while you grieve. with love and blessings, Robyn Meagher and Jason Dorland
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Elisabeth Cosson posted a condolence
Sunday, February 14, 2021
Dave, we’ll miss you. You were such an inspiration to all of us. Your energy and enthusiasm took you a long way. You never gave up. We are very lucky to have met you. Our path met when you started sailing. All the memories that we share from that time on will stay with us forever. Jeremy, Ken, and I will sincerely miss you.
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Laurel Roth and Bob George posted a condolence
Sunday, February 14, 2021
Our hearts are with Jan and all that knew Dave. We met Jan and Dave while cruising and knowing them made our time such a joy. Dave was such a gentle man, a true renaissance man. Knowing Dave made us all better people. The
greatest compliment I ever received was when Dave told me I had inspired him.
The sun is not as bright or the sky as blue without Dave in our lives. Our sails will not fill as joyfully without Dave in this world.
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Geoff and Bunkey Cunliffe posted a condolence
Sunday, February 14, 2021
Dave was a man of many talents, never ceasing to surprise us. We first met in the Bahamas as fellow cruisers and only later saw him as a winning racing skipper on Siggy’s Dancer, then was amazed when he turned a group of sailors into a talented choir, saw the enthusiasm with which he and Jan took up a raw food diet, and only later saw his skills as a pianist, music critic and home concert organizer back in Ontario, and last but not least, was blown away by his successes as a competitive swimmer. With his love of life, and healthy lifestyle, he was the very last person we ever thought would depart this world so soon. Our deepest condolences to you, Jan, and the rest of the family.
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Todd Faver posted a condolence
Sunday, February 14, 2021
It was an honor and a pleasure to know Dave. I'll always remember his positive and joy filled attitude in all aspects of life. His passion for music and his enjoyment of being an athlete was an inspiration. He will be greatly missed. Our condolences and prayers are with his family and friends.
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Peter Bishop uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, February 14, 2021
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We don't know how to express our dismay at the sudden loss of Dave Richards. Vibrant and always cheerful, our good friend continued to surprise us with his interests, endeavours and accomplishments. Peter will always remember Dave at the helm of Siggy's Dancer trying to coax out a little more speed from his boat and crew. Never more animated than in the heat of a close race, Dave was a fierce competitor who still treated his team and his opponents with respect.
Rennie and I will greatly miss Dave's friendship and ever present smile. We would like to express our heartfelt sympathies to Jan, Geoffrey, Caroline and their families. He will be missed.
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Elisabeth Cosson uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, February 14, 2021
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Great sailing Memories
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Elisabeth Cosson uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, February 14, 2021
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Great Sailing Coach!
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Elisabeth Cosson uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, February 14, 2021
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Accomplished sailor
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Elisabeth Cosson uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, February 14, 2021
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Special sailing events
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Elisabeth Cosson uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, February 14, 2021
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Sailing memories
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Cynthia Bahoshy posted a condolence
Sunday, February 14, 2021
Hi Jan,
I am so sorry for your loss. Sending you my deepest condolences.
Dave was such an amazing man. Love you both dearly
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Elisabeth Cosson uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, February 14, 2021
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Elisabeth Cosson Posted Feb 14, 2021 at 8:55 AM
With deepest sympathy as we remember Dave. Dave embraced life with so much enthusiasm. Nothing was impossible for him.
We had wonderful years sailing on Chaos with Jan and Dave aboard. It did not take long for Dave to decide to get his own boat. Wow! It was so special to go sailing on Siggy's Dancer with them. Years passed and Dave continued to excel himself. What an inspiration he was to all of us. He kept pushing his limits and never gave up. We will miss him. Elisabeth and Ken
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Dr Rodica Bighiu and Mihai Bighiu posted a condolence
Saturday, February 13, 2021
Words may not suffice to express the heartfelt sorrow that we feel for the passing of our dear friend Dave. Our sincere condolences to you Jan, we share your grief and only our special memories help us cope. Dave was the one who we admired for his energy, generosity and empathy. He always had kind words of encouragement for us. Always non judgmental, and a true amazing friend. . Dave, you are in our hearts, in our thoughts, in our life always.
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Brenda and Darcy Chisamore posted a condolence
Saturday, February 13, 2021
We are in shock and disbelief at the loss of our friend Dave. Dave was one of the most personable, sincere people we knew. We will remember him forever for many things including his willingness to help in any situation. He was very talented in so many ways and had such a love of life. His love for Jan and his children and grandchildren was always evident. Dave will be missed so much by so many. With love and deepest condolences from Brenda and Darcy.
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Fred Speidel uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, February 13, 2021
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David with BMSC swim team at 2014 FINA World Masters Swimming Championships in Montreal - always an inspiration! We trained together... we'll be missing you!
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Jon uploaded photo(s)
Friday, February 12, 2021
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DSS Music Department uniform. Borrowed it for a Drama thing.
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Debbie Allen posted a condolence
Thursday, February 11, 2021
With sincere condolences to the Richards Family
Mr Richards, I can’t find the words to tell you how much I truly enjoyed participating in your DSS music programs. Fond memories I will always cherish. In recent years I have had the good fortune to see you again at the pool. May you rest to sweet music and swim amongst the clouds.
Debbie Frith Allen
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Susana Escobar lit a candle
Thursday, February 11, 2021
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I am so regretful that I did not have the chance to have a closer relationship with Dave. The few times we interacted it was such a joy and he was always smiling. He had such a beautiful aura! A beautiful soul. May you Rest In Peace and find a lit way to the other side.
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Lee Ryan Hart lit a candle
Thursday, February 11, 2021
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Wendy Joseph uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, February 10, 2021
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Downsview Secondary School Choir Reunion in 2011. Rest In Peace, Heaven has another Angel. Play on...
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Diane Wynnyk (Richings) posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 10, 2021
May Mr. Richards (I could not call him Dave) be in all our memories as he continues his Music so beautifully in another place.. I know that the songs we sang while in D.S.S will be remembered in my Heart My condolences to all the family
Diane Wynnyk (Richings)
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Diane Moreno uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, February 9, 2021
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Rest In Peace maestro
always in our hearts
Thanks for the memories
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Jeannette Panizza lit a candle
Tuesday, February 9, 2021
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With the most sincere condolences. Dave was a great person and I know he is up in heaven leading the angels’ choir. ❤️
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Mark Freedman uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, February 9, 2021
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Mark Freedman posted a condolence
Tuesday, February 9, 2021
My sincere condolences. I wish David's family good health and happiness. Thank you Mr. Richards for your very words and encouragement.
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Margaret MacNeill posted a condolence
Tuesday, February 9, 2021
Dear Jan and the Richards' family;
Peace to all of you. Dave lived a life full of music, movement, friendships and family.
The entire MacNeill-Dobko Clan feels so blessed to have known him since the 1970s, when he bravely trapised across Europe with my brother Al, hubby John & Josie D. as chaperon; then put up with sister Adele and myself floating between saprono and alto sections; while repeatedly convincing my folks to buy all the left over boxes of grapefruits and choir albums to help fund these excursions.
He impacted many generations of music students and crafted his program into the communal heart & soul of Downsview Secondary School. I cherish the many choir memories, from excursions to Washington, to Paul Anka concerts, the quirky 25th DSS Anniversary opera, to the 2011 reunion of his Europe choir & full choir members from the late 70s. Lifelong friendships were formed and life lessons were instilled. In recent years, he welcomed our family to concerts to prepare Glen Glould program students for their international concerts, which has inspired yet another generation of our family. "Mr.Richards" (could never get use to calling him Dave) will continue to inspire us all.
In celebration of his marvelously creative life,
Margaret, Adele, Allan and Alana MacNeill
John, Michael and Kevin Dobko
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Margaret MacNeill uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, February 9, 2021
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Downview Secondary School Choir pictures of Europe trip for chamber choir in 1970s, Royal York performance, and 2011 reunion.
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John Richards posted a condolence
Sunday, February 7, 2021
David and I were cousins who both took different paths in life about fifty years ago. I remember David as a warm and expressive young man with lots to accomplish ahead of him. My wife Kathleen and I would like to express our warmest thoughts of love, condolences and peace to the family.
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Grif and Linda Speers posted a condolence
Friday, February 5, 2021
Linda and I want to express our deepest sympathy to Jan, Geoff, Caroline and all the members of Dave's family. David was a special and unique person. I met him almost 67 years ago and enjoyed so many activities with Dave and his brothers. We played hockey in his backyard during winter and ball at the local schoolground in the summer. That's where I remember him losing a front tooth from a ball that skipped off the grass. His choir sang at the school where I taught. What an accomplished group. Everything David did was top-notch. He was so talented and relentless in his endeavours. We are praying that God will greatly comfort the whole family.
Our Love
Grif and Linda
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Nathan & Staff of eco posted a symbolic gesture
Friday, February 5, 2021
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Dear Jan & Family,
May this memorial page designed in tribute to David bring peace and smiles as photos, stories and sentiments of his life are shared here.
Warmly,
Nathan & Staff of eco.
