Desjardins, Richard Alexander -

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Richard "Rick" Desjardins following a brief battle with cancer. Rick is survived by his devoted wife, Leanne (Bresolin). He loved her from the moment they met when they first played tennis together at the Church of Our Lady courts. He also leaves behind his loving daughters, Melanie (Geoffrey Martin) and Stephanie (James McDermid), whom he always called the joys of his life. He was the beloved papa of grandchildren Cohen Ratsavong, Bennett Martin, Rosie Martin, Maxwell McDermid and Poppy McDermid.

He will be sadly missed by his mother, Janet (the late Ernie) Smith of Mount Hope, and his father, Larry (Sheila) Desjardins of Port Richey, Florida, his sister, Kathrine (Tony) DelBen of Oakville, his brother, Steven (Elise) Desjardins of Newmarket, his sister, Donna (John) Hunter of Waterdown, his mother-in-law, Adele (the late Pietro) Bresolin, sister-in-law, Barbara (David) Sloopka, and brother-in-law, Paul (Lee-Anne) Bresolin, all of Guelph. He leaves behind many loving nieces and nephews who always looked forward to spending time with fun Uncle Rick.

Rick was the best of men, unafraid to show his deep empathy to those around him. He always had thoughtful advice, a ready grin, and always had a plan for fun that included others. He loved deeply and was deeply loved. It was so important for him to show gratitude, so it is no surprise that his spirit chose Thanksgiving Day to leave a lasting legacy.

Rick took great pride in a job well done. He loved his work at Encore Promotions, the company he started 35 years ago, where he was able to be creative and concise, and where he established long-lasting relationships in the community. He loved large family gatherings and barbeques where he could set up games in the back yard for the “sprogs”. He loved sports and made lifelong friends playing tennis, hockey, baseball, and golf. He helped foster memories for others by organizing the infamous Crikey Cup, where he insisted on following the rules of fair play and camaraderie. He loved music and the beach and road trips in his truck and the sunset at Southampton. He left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

The family would like to thank the devoted nurses who took such compassionate care of him during the final steps of his journey. Though his time with us was cut far too short, his family and friends will keep his memory alive and his spirit will live on forever. As an expression of sympathy and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice Wellington in his honour.

“Rise up this morning, smiled with the rising sun

Three little birds, by my doorstep

Singing sweet songs, of melodies pure and sure

Saying, ‘This is my message to you.’

Don’t worry about a thing

‘Cause every little thing is gonna be alright.”