Walter Richard Knowles

September 22, 1944 - March 19, 2011It is with deep sadness that the family of Rick Knowles announces his sudden passing on March 19, 2011. Rick was born to Freda and Dick Knowles in Hope Cove, Devon, England and moved to New Zealand with his family as a young teenager. Rick and Sue, his wife of nearly 40 years met and married in New Zealand where their only child, Jolene was born. In 1978 Rick, Sue and Jolene came to Canada, Sue's birth country and settled in Thunder Bay. Rick loved Canada from the day he arrived and was so very proud when he became a Canadian Citizen in 1982. Rick was employed by The Lakehead Motors in October 1978 and apart from a short absence in the early 1980's remained a very loyal and dedicated employee until his retirement in July 2010. Rick loved the Canadian way of life and particularly enjoyed duck hunting, fishing and moose hunting during his years in Thunder Bay. Rick and Sue moved to Bath, Ontario in July 2010 to be nearer to Jolene, Mike and Bronwyn, their granddaughter and the Apple of Papa's Eye. Left to mourn Rick's passing are his wife Sue, daughter Jolene (Mike Gosselin) and granddaughter Bronwyn all of Bath, On. Rick was predeceased by his mother Freda; father Dick and only sister Linda all in New Zealand. Following cremation Rick will be laid to rest at a private family service. In lieu of flowers donations to the charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated and may be placed directly to the charity or through the PAUL G. PAYNE FUNERAL HOME, BOX 324, ODESSA, ON K0H 2H0 613-386-7373. Rick's family would like to extend their sincere thanks to the Bath fire Department, Lennox & Addington Emergency Services & the Lennox & Addington County General Hospital Emergency Room Staff for all your valiant efforts with Rick."