Peter David Richardson

Peter David Richardson of Moose Jaw, SK passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on March 27th, 2012 at the age of 86.  Pete was born in Beccles, England in 1925.  He came from a family of 10 – 5 boys and 5 girls.  Pete came to Canada at the age of 1 in 1926.  His father, a fisherman, came to start a new life on a homestead in Saskatchewan, bringing with him all 10 children.  The Canadian government had given him $30.00 to start a homestead.  His mother was not able to cope with the harsh winters and passed away when Pete was only 4 years old.  By the age of 10, Pete was facing the world on his own, going from farm to farm – wherever there was work.  Pete joined the Royal Air Force when he was 17 years old, training in Nova Scotia.  He served in Ceylon, Egypt, the Middle East and throughout Europe as a tail-gunner and on rescue missions, later to become a Lieutenant in the R.A.F.  After the war ended, in 1946 he met his first wife, Margaret and they were married for 36 years.  Pete and his young family, consisting of 2 daughters – Lynn & Pat, and his son Darryl, started in the hamlet of Eskbank.  Later the family moved to Mortlach where they spent many happy years.  Pete worked for the Saskatchewan Wheat Pool for 35 years.  He was blessed with the birth of his first grandchild, Kimberley, followed by 2 grandsons, Dustin and Tyler.  Further joy came with the birth of his first great-grandchild, Christian who was followed by Avery, Isaac and Isabelle.  Pete suffered a sad loss when his wife, Margaret, passed away.  And, only 4 short months later, he lost his son Darryl.  As family was the main source of his joy, these were difficult times.  The next chapter of Pete’s life opened when he met Toni Duncan.  Toni and Pete were married on September 25th, 1982.  Shortly after they were married they built a house on the farm by Caron.  Pete loved to watch the passing seasons through the beautiful view through their front window and walking outdoors.  His green thumb was kept busy with a garden and landscaping and he spent much time in his workshop building various items for family and friends.  He was known for his cradles and barns that he lovingly crafted for others.  Pete and Toni spent endless hours sharing time with family.  Every birthday, wedding, birth and events were celebrated and attended if possible.  Pete was always ready to lend a hand on the farm or help in construction projects.  They volunteered for church events, Bible camps and visited and comforted those in hospital or in need of a friendly or comforting word.  Pete lovingly embraced Toni’s children – Leslie, Debbie, Brad and Rod and spouses.  He has lavished love as Grandpa and Great-Grandpa to his grandchildren – Brock, Rachelle, Justin, Kara, Kyle, Brennen, Nairen, Brandon and Joel and great-grandchildren – Jack, Ella, Bronwyn, Braxton, Lexi, Tyce, Kavis, Kollins, Keltyn, Macy, Tanner and Prestyn.  We will miss his love, joking and prayers that have accomplished more than we will ever know this side of heaven.  The Funeral Service will be held on Monday, April 2nd, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. in Moose Jaw Alliance Church, corner of 9th Ave N.W. and Thatcher Drive.  Reverend Dennis Plett will officiate and interment will follow in Rosedale Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Special Olympics, 353 Broad St., Regina, SK S4R 1X2 or to a charity of one’s choice.  Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane.  Calvin Gammel, Funeral Director. 693-4550.