Obituary of Richard Wilkins

Richard passed away on Wednesday, May 16,2007 surrounded by his family at Foothills Hospital. He died from complications arising from his treatment for lymphoma, diagnosed only three months earlier. Rich was raised in Medicine Hat. He graduated from Medicine Hat High School and completed his first year of university at Medicine Hat College and graduated with distinction in Commerce from the University of Montana, Missoula. He was very athletic, playing hockey, volleyball, golf, tennis, curling and was also an excellent skier. Rich was an accomplished singer, acting with the university opera troupe in Montana, singing at weddings and participating in karaoke at any opportunity. Rich began his career in the insurance business in 1994. In 1999 he joined Critical Mass where he was assigned to Richmond VA, Calgary, Stockholm and most recently, Toronto. He had become a Vice President and was part of the management team and the heart and soul of the company. Rich loved to travel, both for work and pleasure. One of his most memorable adventures was back-packing through Europe with Di, Phil, and another friend for four months. He especially loved his trips to Hawaii, Greece and Tofino. Rich was loved by everyone who knew him and he will be missed by hundreds of friends. Richard is survived by his partner, Jay Wells; his parents Dave and Aileen Wilkins; his sister Dianne and her family (Phil, Anna and Thomas), his uncles, aunt and cousins, his beloved dog Jett and his many loving friends. All will miss his love of life, his compassion, and his goodness. A Celebration of Rich’s Life will be held on Sunday, May 20 at Canada Olympic Park beginning at 5:00 p.m. All who knew Rich are invited to join his family in an exchange of memories. Additional information is available on his web site at gorich.org. In lieu of flowers, we would ask that any donations be made to the GoRich Foundation which he wanted to benefit the Tom Baker Hospital and the Alberta Cancer Society. Donations may be made through the Calgary Foundation or online via his web site, gorich.org. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. In living memory of Rich, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 CENTRE STREET NORTH Telephone: (403) 276-2296.