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Ricky Emil "Rick" WILLIAMS
Ricky Emil "Rick" WILLIAMS
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Ricky WILLIAMS Obituary
WILLIAMS, Ricky (Rick) Emil
February 23, 1954 – Lampman, SK
November 5, 2014 – Calgary, AB
It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that the family of Ricky (Tiger) Emil Williams announces his passing on Wednesday, November 5, 2014 at the Bethany Harvest Hills Long Term Care Facility at the age of 60 years young. Rick was born in Lampman, Saskatchewan to Betty Lou Bryce and Clarence (Butch) Williams, where he spent a short time before moving to Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, and finalizing his journey in Calgary, Alberta. Rick's life was devoted to hockey, educating students, his family and his wonderful friends. Rick had a way of touching the hearts of each person that he met, and will leave a legacy within all. Rick is survived by his loving wife Susanne; his two children Sheena and Luke; brother Russell; father Clarence (Butch) Williams; step- mother Grace Williams; auntie Doris Serne; and his two step-brothers Wayne and Keith Bauer. A Celebration of Rick's Life will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY (Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road S.E.) on Saturday, November 15, 2014 at 2:00 p.m. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. The family would especially like to thank the FORs, close friends of the family, and the staff and nurses of the Bethany Care Center who always treated Rick with kindness, respect, compassion and love. In living memory of Rick Williams, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park.
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43 Entries
Leigh-Ann
September 29, 2021
Mr. Williams was one of my junior high school gym teachers from 2005-2007. It was obvious to me today the impact he had made on my life as here we are 15 years later and his memory is still with me. Although his part in my life may have been considered "small" I haven't forgotten how he stood out from the rest. I wanted to take a minute to remember him and the positive legacy he left behind. Thank-you, RIP.
Rick & Helle Brink
November 28, 2014
Susanne & familie,
Kondolere med jeres store tab. Vi er rystet og chokeret over jeres alt for tidlige afsked med en elsket mand og far. Rick har gode minder fra tiden i Danmark, samt jeres gæst frihed i Calgary. Vi vil tænke på dig og jeres kære børn. De kærligste og varmeste tanker til specielt dig; Susanne og jeres børn, men også til alle venner og familie medlemmer, der var jer meget nær og kær.
Kondolere .
Amanda Waters (Mitchell)
November 20, 2014
Mr. Williams was my favorite teacher and a true difference maker in my life. Grade 9 was a very difficult year for me, but Mr. Williams always looked out for me and took time to check in with me to make sure I was okay. He taught me to always try my best (despite still not being able to hit a baseball!l) And never stopped believing in me. I am so thankful I knew him.
Cathy Kokot
November 19, 2014
I was very sad to hear about Rick. He was always so friendly to talk to. My son enjoyed having him as one of his Phys. Ed. teachers for 4 years at Fairview. I will never forget his signature voice and infectious smile.
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Tracy Forman
November 19, 2014
I was very saddened to hear that Rick passed away upon visiting my mother at Bethany Care Center. He would always greet everyone with a smile, even as his health deteriorated. I recall him and Mom having a lengthy "jibberish" discussion one afternoon. It made me smile to watch that they were connecting and really enjoying their conversation. His mind, and later body, were truly taken from you too soon.
My hearts go out to all of you.
Katie Storey
November 15, 2014
I had the pleasure of having Mr. Williams as a PE teacher and basketball coach from 2002-2005. He made such an impact on me during this time of my life and I will always remember his caring heart. He was so passionate in everything he did and it was obvious how much he enjoyed life and his family. I thank him for teaching me to always give 110%, never give up, and live each moment with joy. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Rest in peace Mr. Williams.
Colleen Bratko
November 15, 2014
I am so saddened to hear about Rick's passing. He was always so full of life and had a very big presence. I was always so impressed with his dedication to his students and to fitness. I will always remember him playing air guitar in the talent show in tights and a wig! It was awesome! I am glad that I got to work with him for a short time, and that our paths had crossed. My deepest condolences to his friends and family for your loss.
Jessica Bush
November 15, 2014
I am very saddened to hear about the passing of Mr. Williams. I was fortunate to have him as my gym teacher, and coach back in Junior High. He was a very influential person in my life at the time, and always inspired me to become not only a better athlete, but a better person too. In my grade 9 year he challenged me to try to make every single Fairview sports team. Though it didn't work out (didn't quite make every team), i'll always appreciate his ability to push you out of your comfort zone, and challenge you to become better. His love for life, his family, his golden retriever and all of his students was infectious, and will be sorely missed. So too, we'll miss all of his hilarious shenanigans. My heart goes out to his family, and everyone who knew him, as we'll all be thinking fondly of the wonderful man we knew.
Courtney Ashton
November 12, 2014
Mr Williams was my junior high gym teacher, and I will never be able to repay him for what he taught me, nor will I ever forget him. He will be deeply missed by everyone who was lucky enough to know him. My condolences to the family as I can't even begin to imagine what they are going through, just know he is in a good place. Your family member was loved dearly and Rick will never be forgotten by anyone.
Diane Robinson
November 11, 2014
Mr. Williams was My daughters gym teacher in elementary school in Rundle and what a fabulous surprise when we moved to Riverbend and Mandy went to Fairview Jr. high and he had moved there. Mandy literally had Rick as a gym/life teacher from grade 1-9. What and awesome human being Rick was. He will be missed.
Erin McQuitty
November 11, 2014
Mr. Williams was an inspirational teacher, and mentor. He was such a positive influence in my life, and made my years as a Junior High student incredibly memorable. His jokes, Shania impersonations, and endless energy will forever hold a special place in my heart. My condolences to his family, friends, and the rest of the students' whose lives I am sure he has impacted so greatly.
Cross Dressing Day
Amber Desaulniers
November 11, 2014
To the Williams Family, I am so sorry for your loss. I remember Rick ( Mr.Williams ) fondly. He was my favorite reason for gym class. I couldn't wait for it when he was my teacher for that day. The world is missing a great man now. I feel privileged at having him graced my life. I snapped this picture out of my 2001 yearbook. I hope it brings a smile to your face. Much love.
Julia Saks
November 11, 2014
I am so sorry to hear of 'Mr Williams' passing. He was a remarkable teacher and human being who influenced my kids in such a unique and heartfelt way. My sincere condolences to his wife and family.
Meagan Dumouchel
November 11, 2014
I remember him as a gym teacher, he was always smiling unless the guys were doing something stupid. I am sorry for your loss.
Kirsten Riebot
November 10, 2014
I'm deeply saddened to hear about the passing of one of the greatest teachers in the world. He was truly a remarkable teacher and person. He was a big jokester and always put a smile on his students' faces. He's one of the reasons I chose to become a teacher. My condolences to his family and friends. You will be greatly missed Mr. Williams.
November 10, 2014
Sorry to hear of your loss. My wife and I never knew Rick but we have many fond memories of his dad Butch and his stepmom Grace and his Aunt Doris when we lived in Saskatoon and attended the same church and sat in the same vicinity in the pews.
Arvid and Nancy Pederson
Edmonton
Sympathy to the family.
Dave Williams
November 10, 2014
Rick you may have left us early, but you had a good ride.
All these students , and lives
you touched shows you made a difference in this world.
Heavens hockey team just
Got a jolt of spirit . Pardon the pun but he would want us laughing. Will miss you good buddy.
Condolences to Suzy and the family
From Mexico
April Coughlan
November 10, 2014
I am so saddened to hear of the passing of Mr. Williams. He was my teacher in the late 90s and always held a special place in my heart. It's not surprising to hear over and over that he was everyone's favourite teacher, because he made each and every student feel special, like they were his favourite too.
He was an incredible mentor, inspiration and friend. He taught us gym class, but it was so much more than that. He taught us discipline, leadership, compassion and integrity, all with his trademark sense of humour. Junior High can be a challenging time, but Mr. Williams made it easier. He had a way of making you feel like a peer instead of just a kid and that your thoughts and feelings mattered.
Beyond Junior High, we kept in touch and he became a family friend, as our family often looked after his beloved Golden Retriever Chubsy. Mr. Williams even attended my University graduation party which meant so much.
He spoke so often about his family, I know he was a tremendously proud husband and father. I am so incredibly sorry for your loss Susie, Sheena and Luke. It's hard to imagine such a vibrant soul could be taken so young. He will be dearly missed.
Rick Lee
November 10, 2014
I was fortunate to be on the Walter Murray High School Hockey team with Ricky for a couple of years during the late sixties/early seventies. I remember his love for hockey and his irrepressible spirit. He was an incredible competitor yet also a friend of everyone. After reading about the respect and love he has received from his past Students and fellow Teachers he truly lived a wonderful life that was cut far too short. My thoughts are with his family.
Sandy Coghlan
November 10, 2014
It never seems fair when people we are close to die. I am sorry for the loss of your husband. I am thinking of you and your family. My sincere condolences.
Lindsay
November 10, 2014
My condolences to the family of Mr.Willams. I am saddened by the news of his passing. He was my gym teacher 16 years ago at Fairview and I remember him like it was yesterday. I was an awkward kid and he always tried to make me smile! Rest in peace, Mr. Williams.
Stephanie Rodgers (nee Quefelec)
November 10, 2014
I'm deeply saddened to hear of the passing of one of the greatest teachers in the world. It was an honor being his student. Mr Williams was truly a remarkable teacher; funny, loved to make jokes, and just wanted everyone to have fun. He was a big kid himself! He was an amazing teacher!!!He made up a lot of what my jr. High years would entail and for that I am grateful; as I learned so much from him during those 3 years at Fairview Jr. High. My condolences to his family, friends and all those that knew him. We will miss you Mr. Williams.
Sandra Lausch
November 10, 2014
My deepest sympathy to Susie, Sheena and Luke and to Uncle Butch, Aunt Grace, Russell and family.
D Parmar
November 10, 2014
Mr Williams will always hold a special place with so many of his students. His joy, laughter, wit and kind heart will always be remembered and treasured. Deepest condolences to his family and all that had the pleasure of enjoying a moment of life with this wonderful soul.
Carolyn Millett
November 9, 2014
I am so sad to hear of the passing of Mr. Williams. He was such an inspiration to me and really made Jr. High memorable. I'll never forget rides to soccer practice in his old, decrepit Volvo, his on-going jokes and his always optimistic attitude. He will be greatly missed, but always be remembered as an incredible man and mentor. My thoughts are with his family.
Simin Radmanesh
November 9, 2014
I remember so clearly Mr Williams voice, his jokes, his good humour, and his enthusiasm, kindness and love for all his students. He was always so full of energy and life. My condolences to his family.
L Hassan
November 9, 2014
My heart is so heavy, he was the one person who truly believed in me when other people didn't. RIP Mr. Williams you will be truly missed by everyone. You made a difference in everyone's lives in gym class
Rick Petrowitsch
November 9, 2014
Dear Suzie, Sheena and Luke,
I had the privilege to work with Rick for 13 years at Fairview. He always spoke so highly of his children and he was so proud of you both. Rick was in awe of his beautiful and caring wife.
The students that Rick worked with had the good fortune to be taught by one of the most caring and enthusiastuc PE teachers. He made gym fun for everyone no matter what their skills or talents. It was always a hit when Rick would entertain the school with his impersonation talents as Shania or Elvis. His sense of humour and big loud laugh will remain in our hearts for ever.
My deepest respect for all of Rick's family and friends that supported him and his family in a most difficult time.
Rest in Peace Rick or should I say "Tiger".
November 9, 2014
My deepest sympathies to you all it this time. Sending you my thoughts and prayers.
Carol Rawlyck
E Robertson
November 9, 2014
So sorry for the entire Williams family. Much like all the other messages, Mr.Williams was one of my favourite teachers at fairview, 16 years ago. He was always there to lend an ear or put a smile on someones face when they needed it. He will be dearly missed by not only all of his students, but the CBE who was lucky to have such an inspirational teacher amongst them.
RIP
Rob Griffith
November 9, 2014
While it's very sad to hear of Mr. Williams passing, I think some solace can be taken in the legacy he left with all of his students. His passion was evident and infectious. Rest in peace.
Bob Amy
November 9, 2014
Everyone loved Rick .He had an unsuppresable positive energy and sense of fun .He will always be in the hearts of those who knew him. Rest easy old buddy.You made an immense contribution to your students and fellow teachers.
Don Dziadyk
November 9, 2014
Condolences to the family
Jasmine Wietzke
November 9, 2014
He was the best jr high gym teacher ever ! Well actually the best gym teacher I ever had. He always let me get away with swearing and no one else haha. He will always be remembered :)
Lindsay Jackson
November 9, 2014
I'm so sorry to hear of "Mr. Williams" passing. I'm sure that you will hear from many of his students in the coming days, for he made an impression on all of us. He was always ready with a quick laugh or joke, and was clearly passionate about his work! I can still remember him playing with us, out on the soccer field at Fairview Junior High, 15 years ago... I also remember the way he used to talk regularly about his kids and family - know that you were never far from his thoughts. I hope that in the coming days and months you find strength in one another and in the many people who cared for your dad-husband-son-brother-friend. So sorry he is gone from you so soon.
H. Johnston
November 8, 2014
Dear Williams Family,
I'm so sorry to hear of your loss.
I didn't know him very well, but “Mr. Williams” was a Phys. Ed. teacher at my Jr. High school. There were usually four different Phys. Ed. teachers, and each student was assigned to one of them. I remember everyone always wanted Mr. Williams; he made gym class so fun. He had an enthusiasm, charm and energy that made him a favourite among students.
This was years ago now, but I wanted to let you know the positive impact he had through who he was.
My thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time.
Samira Sainas
November 8, 2014
I'm very sadden by the loss of Mr. Williams. He was one of the best gym teachers and he changed who i viewed gym class. I was one of the girls who felt akward and didnt want to go to class but he would always tell us he graded on how hard we tried not how well we did. Hes the reason I joined the wrestling team in highschool. He touched so many of us at fairview jr high and was such a big part of our lives. My thoughts are with his family.
Sarah
November 8, 2014
I was lucky enough to have Mr Williams as a phys ed teacher back in mid 1990's. He was so positive and full of energy! He certainy left a lasting impression on so many students and we will never forget him. He was one of the best! Rest easy Rick.
November 8, 2014
Rest in peace Rick...Victor
Holden Cattoni
November 8, 2014
Mr. Williams was a true inspiration and role model to all of his students that he has taught throughout his teaching career. I am truly lucky to be one of these students. I have never met a more personable man in my life. His stories and wisdoms were always welcomed and admired. His upbeat personality could consistently turn an average day into an unforgettable one. Mr. Williams recognized that there was more to life than school and sports and tried to instill these small lessons along with his phys. ed. lesson of the day. There are not many people like Mr. Williams that you have the privilege to meet in your life and it is truly a tragedy when you lose one. I will carry a small part of Mr. Williams with me forever and I wish my deepest condolences to his entire family.
Don and Joyce Wilhelm
November 8, 2014
We were so saddened to hear of Rick's passing. We are so very happy we got a visit with Rick and his family at Uncle Butch's birthday. Our very deepest sympathy is with Susan, Sheena and Luke; and to Uncle Butch and Aunt Grace and to his brother Russ. Our deepest love and prayers are with each one of you. Don and Joyce Wilhelm
Ken Wasden
November 8, 2014
To the Williams family,
Rick was a close friend and former teammate of my brother John. Because I attended all of their games I got to be around Rick a fair bit. Always a competitor and always fun to be around. They can now relive some of those moments together. At the end of the day, all we have left is memories. May the wonderful memories of Rick comfort you at this time.
Bill Gibson
November 8, 2014
Susie, Sheena and Luke;
Marilyn emailed me to tell me of Rick's passing. We are so sad and want you to know that our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Rick was a wonderful person who was always smiling and always so engaging.
I know these last several years have been so trying for you all, to see your beloved Rick in such difficult circumstance. I am really sorry that Barb and I will not be at Rick's celebration as we are in Phoenix right now. The most incredible legacy Rick leaves behind (besides his beautiful family) was the love he had for his friends and the love they showed in return.
I have never been more impressed with a group of 60 year old guys who were there to support Rick until the end. I still remember going up to the Rockyview Hospital last spring to visit my mother-in-law and I bumped into Jimmy Hunter. He told me he had just visited Rick and that all the guys took turns spending time with him. It actually brought tears to my eyes as in the end, life really is about the friends you make and the relationships you develop. Rick was obviously loved by all who new him and I no that he will not be forgotten.
Take care and know that we are thinking about you guys. All the best,
Love,
Bill and Barb Gibson and family
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14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, AB T2X 3J3
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