Richard Michael Washnuk (Wash) Feb. 16, 1955 – Dec. 10, 2016
Rick passed peacefully on the morning of December 10, 2016 with the love of his life by his side.
Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 37 years, Susan, sons Mike (Kristin), Dan (Josée); his beloved mother Marion, his ‘sis’ Verna (Laurie), brother in law Gerry (Linda), sister in law Sandy, numerous family and close friends.
Born and raised in Elmwood the only child of Mike & Marion, Rick developed many special life long friendships.
He attended George V and Elmwood High School playing for the Elmwood Eskimos. Rick went onto University where he ‘majored in football’ for the U of M Bisons. After having had a ‘cup of coffee’ with the Bombers, Rick left university to pursue a career in the glass industry that spanned over 30 years.
Starting at Border Glass then onto CCP (division of Willmar Windows) Rick eventually opened up his own Manufacturers Agency, RMW Enterprises. Through hard work he was successful and respected in his field.
His passion for sports began early on playing community club hockey, baseball & lacrosse.
Sports had always remained an essential part of life for Rick. whether he golfed, curled, fished, hunted or whether he played, coached or armchair quarterbacked he was always involved in some way.
Rick devoted many years coaching football with the Daniel McIntyre Maroons and then East Side Eagles. He was proud to have coached his sons in baseball, hockey and football.
Though MS took his ability to walk, his mind remained as sharp and active as ever. Never one to shy away from a discussion on anything sports related or political, Rick’s advice on almost any subject was sought out by many and his Intelligence and candor were valued and enjoyed by all who knew him.
Rick’s appreciation for good conversation increased in these last few years and it is the time that was spent with his family and friends that added the quality to his life.
The family wishes to thank all those who journeyed with Rick.
The weekly visits from Dwight, MNF & Pizza with John & Grant, Thursday lunches with Randy & Terry and all those who dropped by.
Dom for the generous gift of technology that allowed Rick to ‘be heard’
Uncle Don for the time spent reading, making appts. and life advice.
Thanks to Allan, Brian, Chris, David, John, Murray, Noel & Petros for all your care and the Palliative team for your support.
Honorary pallbearers are Dwight, Rod, Randy, Terry, George, Leo, Verna & Kathy.
A gathering to celebrate and remember Rick’s life will take place on Wednesday, Dec. 14th at 7 pm
Holy Eucharist Parish Center, 460 Munroe Avenue.
In lieu of flowers, donations to charity of choice.
Vince Lombardi said “….I firmly believe that any man’s finest hour—is that moment when he has to work his heart out in a good cause and he’s exhausted on the field of battle-victorious.
Victorious is how we will remember you.
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