WOODSIDE, Richard Alexander Woodside

Passed peacefully, surrounded by family, on Saturday, November 8th, after a three-year, courageous battle with colon cancer. He is our super hero!

Richard was born on April 12th, 1960. His loving parents were Peter and Doreen Woodside. He shared wonderful stories about growing up in Beaconsfield, Quebec, with his older sister, Jeri (Dan) Fortin. He later graduated with a phys ed degree from Acadia University, in 1982. After graduation, he applied to the RCMP, and while waiting for his application to be processed, his Dad got him into IBM, and he went on to have a very successful 37-year career at IBM.

Richard is survived by his wife, Ann, his best friend, whom he was happily married to for 33 years, his beloved son, Mackenzie, daughter, Logan, and his “fur babies”, Mazie and Muffin. His family were his pride and joy. He always said “home” was not a physical location, but wherever his family were. His extended family and friends meant a great deal to him.

Richard loved life! He lived for today! He enjoyed the simple pleasures. He loved being with people, and talking to people, and was well versed on so many subjects. He loved playing all sports in his youth, and loved watching, and following all sports. He was an avid golfer, and wind surfer, and loved strength training. He was a huge Toronto sports fan, and had numerous t-shirts to prove it. He loved Friday night pizza nights that were a long-time tradition. He loved the water, and just being near it brought him great joy. He also loved the zoo and was a huge animal lover. Richard loved the outdoors. If you found him indoors, he was probably reading a book, watching a series on tv, or listening to music. John Grisham and Bob Marley, two of his favourites.

Richard gave of himself selflessly. He put his family and others first. He was a wonderful man. So kind, gentle, caring, generous, and so appreciative of the little things. It was so easy and comfortable to be around him. He had a special sense of humour. He will be missed terribly by many and loved forever and always.

In lieu of flowers, donations would gratefully be accepted to Lakeridge Health Durham Region Cancer Centre. He was, and we are, forever grateful for the exceptional care he received.

 BARNES MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME