(November 5, 1947 - July 23, 2025) It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Richard "Rick" Cheyne Gossage at his beloved cottage, Flamingo Acres. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Mary Lou (Roe), and their four children: Patrick (Rieshdah), Caitlin (Ahmad), Victoria (Andrew), and Stephanie - each of whom he loved deeply with unwavering pride and devotion. Rick was an adored 'Grandpa' to Charles, Bennett, Kian and Weston with whom he shared endless giggles doing his unforgettable Donald Duck impression. Rick was predeceased by his brother John and leaves behind his brother Patrick. He will be missed by his sisters-in-law Margaret and Geraldine as well as his nieces and nephews. A true son of Toronto, Rick attended Upper Canada College before getting a degree at the University of Toronto. Rick was a natural entrepreneur who brought heart and hustle to all his endeavours. But it was his joyful, generous, and magnetic personality that made him truly unforgettable. He had a gift for connection - considered a second father by many, with the ability to build and maintain friendships everywhere he went. Rick was the life of every party, famously known for his world-class Manhattans, his deep love of golf, Hawkins Cheezies, and Isaac Hayes. He was a longtime member of the Toronto Hunt Club and a Founding Member of Bigwin Island Golf Course, where he could often be found searching for lost balls in the woods (often not even his own). Rick was a man of tradition. He grew up summering on Lake of Bays, a place that was the setting for his happiest memories. He was never without peanuts in his pocket to feed the 'chippies' a ritual he passed on to his grandchildren. Rick was happiest surrounded by family, friends, and laughter. He made every gathering feel like a celebration. We are all going to miss him. The family extends heartfelt thanks to Sam, Tonie, the first responders, and our friends on the lake for their support in those early moments. A celebration of Rick's life will be held in the fall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made by mail to Baysville Fire Department, Station 4 (12 University St., Baysville, ON P0B 1A0) or Toronto Wildlife Centre, in Rick's memory. Condolences may be forwarded through
www.humphreymiles.com.
Published by The Globe and Mail from Aug. 9 to Aug. 13, 2025.