Richard Alan Buzza

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dick (Richard) Buzza, 86, on September 30, 2020, at his home in Westbank.  Cause of death was kidney failure.  He was predeceased by his parents Willis and Hazel Buzza, his younger brother Jim Buzza, brother in law Bill Kelly, sister in laws Joy Buzza and Gloria Buzza.  Dick is survived by his loving wife Maxine, his cherished daughter Leanne (Marc) Garcia, his adored granddaughter Kristina (Shane), his great grandson’s Deacon & Dayton and Shane’s older son Daymean.  Dearly missed by his brother Robert Buzza, sister Joan Kelly and his brother in law Richard (Donna) Relkoff, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Dick was born and raised in Vancouver, B.C.  When he was 14 years old, he fell in love with the girl next door, Maxine, also 14 years old, the daughter of George and Elma Relkoff.  They were married 6 years later in March 1954, their marriage encompassed 66 wonderful years together. 

Dick had a keen interest in all things mechanical.  He graduated from Vancouver Technical School, completed a drafting course, then enrolled as an apprentice in the sheet metal trade, which he excelled at.  He was able to fix just about anything or ‘cover’ it in sheet metal.  In his spare time he reconfigured the rear of a Model T by incorporating an exterior rumble seat, in sheet metal.  During a test run, down a local mountain, with older brother Bob and his future wife Joy wedged into the seat, the brakes failed and speed gained as they crossed the main highway, likely exceeding 80km but no harm done.

Dick was a fabulous athlete in both soccer and lacrosse, in particular.  He played lacrosse for the PNE Indians, was a member of a ‘Minto Cup’ National Championship Team in 1954 and also scored 7 goals in a soccer final.

In 1957-1959, Dick & Maxine hand built their home in Surrey, B.C., with the help of family and many friends.  At the time Dick worked for Parkinson’s Heating, later becoming a Partner in the company.

Then in 1969 he decided to move his family to Nova Scotia, along with their good friends the ‘Wiffen’ and ‘Neilsen’ families.  Once settled in Digby, N.S. he owned/operated Home Improvement Center, where he actually used tools from the 1930’s and 1940’s to hand craft current items that he required.  The Town’s people in the Digby area were gracious, many became good friends and wonderful customers. 

In 1973, Dick and family returned to B.C., settling in Westbank.  He then owned/operated R.A. Buzza Heating & Air Conditioning.  Over the years Dick was fully qualified for tickets in 5 Trades.  Often, mornings at his workshop, before the work day, started off not only with employees, but other Trades people, various Wholesaler Rep’s and friends, that would gather around the ‘metal clad’ picnic table, for a cup or two of coffee and banter.  He was a great Boss & Mentor to numerous; Kirk, Dean, Tim, Ernie, Leanne, Kristina, Diano, Dominic, Darrell, Vinnie, Matt, Jason and Allan, to name a few.  Several attained their Apprenticeship Papers under his employ and guidance.  Dick retired in 2011, his reputation precedes him.  Many of his ex-employees are still in the Industry and some are successfully self employed business owners.  Many kept in touch over the years.  All benefited from his expertise and his tremendous work ethic.  He valued his vast and returning clientele, which spanned from Penticton to Kelowna.  Dick was the happiest doing things for others.  Quite often while he worked, he would be whistling or singing an old song or ditty.  He was an avid gardener, everywhere he lived, sharing his fruits & vegetables with family and friends.  One year his Hubbard Squash took 1st place, at the Peachland Fall Fair.

Above all he had a very strong faith in Jehovah God, knowing he would be resurrected.  He will be forever loved and dearly missed.  Until we meet again.

A memorial celebration is to be held at a later date, to be determined, due to Covid 19.