David Edward 1943 - 2026 The family of Dave Richards of RICHARDS

RICHARDS, David Edward 1943 - 2026 The family of Dave Richards of Summerland, British Columbia, is saddened to announce his passing. Dave passed peacefully on January 22, 2026, at 9:14 p.m., in the loving presence of his family, at the age of 82. Dave was a man of many projects-but above all, he was rich in love, passion, and relationships. He was always ready to lend a hand, offer an idea, or find a solution. Dave genuinely cared that people were happy and living life to the fullest, and he took great joy in creating meaningful opportunities and experiences for others. To those who knew him best, Dave was a steady presence: a father, grandfather, partner, and friend whose love was given freely, without judgment and without condition. Some of Dave's most treasured "collections" were those intended to bring people together and strengthen community. These included his cherry orchard in Faulder; his many engineering and hydro projects that fed orchards and vineyards throughout the valley; and his invention of the snow-making hydrant, which put snow on hills across Canada. He was well known for firing up the vintage Tucker Sno-Cat long after the lifts had closed at Apex, towing friends and family up for a few more spring laps. His collection of boats, cranes, and farm tractors gave countless memories to family and friends-tools he was never shy to share. Dave leaves us with a treasure hunt that will continue to provide many more hours of joy, a fitting reflection of his enduring legacy. Dave will be deeply missed by his wife, Marta; his three children, Kary, Kristi, and Michael; and his grandchildren, Jaedah, Phoenix, and Avalon. His life will be cherished by his sisters, Marrianne and Mickey; his brother, Charles; and his nieces and nephews, Mark, Megan, Paul, Amanda, Dana, and Rob. He leaves behind an enduring wealth of love and joy in the lives he touched, the communities he strengthened, the projects he built, the paths he cleared, and the people he quietly and constantly lifted up along the way. A Celebration of Dave's Life will be held on June 14, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at the South Okanagan Sailing Association, 11619 Lakeshore Drive South, Summerland, BC. A scattering of Dave's cremated remains will take place following the celebration, from the sailboat. To send condolences please visit www.providencefuneral homes.com.