With grieving hearts, the family of Richard "Rick" Stephenson announce his sudden passing, at home, on March 27, 2016. He was 65 years of age. Rick was born in Fort Frances, ON on May 26, 1951, the son of John and Verna (nee McDonald). The family relocated to Brandon, MB where Rick attended Brandon Collegiate High School. While in High School, Rick met Christine and they were married on December 4, 1970. They were blessed with three beautiful children, Tracy, Kathy and Ricky. In 1987, the family moved to Yorkton when Rick was transferred to Melville for his work with CN Rail. Rick was employed with CN for 35 years before his retirement in 2007. After moving to Yorkton, Rick played a large part in his children's lives as a coach for their various sports teams. Rick also enjoyed playing sports and over the years he played fastball, slow pitch, hockey and golf. In his retirement years, Rick would be found at Whitesand Regional Park at his campsite. His time was spent on the course with his golfing buddies, boating and fishing, watching Rider games or entertaining the troops at the campsite. Rick, who was also affectionately known as "Freddie" or "Steamer", was a good friend to everyone. If you were in need of a helping hand, he was right there to assist. He was kind and considerate and never sought out confrontation with anyone, instead he would always find a way to resolve every disagreement. Rick's greatest belief was to live the good life. Rick was predeceased by his parents, his sister and the mother of his children. He leaves to cherish his memory, his children, Tracy (Scott), Kathy (Shaun) and Ricky (Christine); his grandchildren, Karlee, Victoria, Kadeen and Taya and his great-granddaughter, Mia. Rick also leaves to mourn his passing his close friend, Angie and her family. A Service to Celebrate Rick's Life was held on Monday, April 3, 2017 from the Chapel of Christie's Funeral Home in Yorkton, SK with Shelly Morris officiating. Words of tribute and eulogy were shared by Trevor Secundiak. Special taped music selections included "You Shook Me All Night Long" by AC/DC, "Don't Stop Believing" by Journey, "Stairway to Heaven" as sung by Heart, "Who You'd Be Today" by Kenny Chesney and "Sound of Silence" as sung by Disturbed. The service was followed by a reception at the Heritage Baptist Church. A private family cremation committal will take place at a later date. Friends so wishing may forward their condolences to the family by visiting www.christiesfuneralhome.com. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Christie's Funeral Home & Crematorium, Yorkton, Saskatchewan.
