Richard Douglas Berreth

December 23^rd, 1945 – January 29^th, 2024

 

It is with great sadness that the family of Richard Douglas Berreth announce his unexpected passing on January 29th, 2024.

Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 52 years, Marilyn; his three daughters, sons-in-law, and six grandchildren: Gizelle (Duane), McKenna, and Davyn of Airdrie; Dorlisa (Tyler), Adelynn, and Jaren of Medicine Hat; Richelle (Corey), Isabelle (Dwight), and Abigail of Carstairs, as well as numerous extended family members.

Richard was born at home in Piapot, Saskatchewan on December 23rd, 1945, to Daniel and Violet Berreth. His small- town upbringing was happy, and he loved sharing stories of playing hockey, delivering the Leader Post, and working at the Bowie Store. He attended school in Piapot and Maple Creek. He received his teacher certificate from the University of Regina and later his Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Alberta. He taught in Brooks and Maple Creek before spending a year with his parents training and racing thoroughbred horses across Canada and Arizona. Then he accepted a teaching job in Vanguard where he met Marilyn. They married in 1971 and welcomed three daughters who kept them active with sports, travel, and school events. Throughout his 30-year career, Richard taught many junior and senior high subjects and was principal in Neville and Vanguard. He was a passionate volleyball coach, but it was his senior boys’ basketball team that he led to a provincial silver. In the late 80s, the family spent four summers in California while Richard and Marilyn completed their Master of Arts in Education at San Diego State University. Before retiring in 1998, Richard spent his last few years teaching in Wymark.

In retirement, Richard’s passion for travel took off. After going on a couple shorter cruises, the travel bug was caught. Their adventures took Richard and Marilyn to all seven continents and 133 countries, Madagascar being his favourite. He loved photographing the sights, experiencing different cultures, and tasting local beers. Richard was returning home from a Panama Cruise when he suddenly passed away. He enjoyed creating many travel books and planning their next trip. He had a green thumb, and he took pride in caring for his grape vines, orchids, fuchsias, hibiscuses, begonias, and garden. Also, as a skilled woodworker, he created many things for his loved ones. Richard found simple pleasures in watching sports, particularly the Oilers and the Tigers, and having bonfires.

Richard had an enormous heart and a wonderful sense of humour. He was clever and full to the brim with knowledge gained through all of his life experiences. Richard could easily strike up a conversation with anyone anywhere, never forgetting a name or a person’s story. He particularly enjoyed political discussions. Family was important to Richard. He attended as many of his grandchildren’s school events and sports games as he could. “Pa” was so proud of everything they did and was the first one to photograph the special moments in their lives. The “grands” knew how to pull at his heartstrings and were spoiled when they visited. They deeply adored and loved being around “Pa”. Richard will be sorely missed by his family and we will always have great memories and many stories to share.

A private family time of remembrance will be held at a later date at the Piapot Cemetery. Memorial gifts in Richard’s memory may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada. Condolences may be made at www.gracememorial.com. Arrangements are made by GRACE MEMORIAL AFFORDABLE BURIAL & CREMATION 1924 10^th Ave NW, Medicine Hat, Alberta T1C 1T5 403-905-0440 info@gracememorial.com.

• Date : 2024-01-29
• Location : Medicine Hat, Alberta

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