In Loving Memory of
Richard George Ringer (Rick)
1947 - 2023
Obituary of Richard George Ringer (Rick)
Died on November 28, 2023. Predeceased by his parents George and Adaline, and brother Jack. He will be sorely missed by his children Adam (Lisa Marczewski) and Julia, wife/friend Patti, grandchildren Charlie and Sam. Also by his sisters Valerie (John) McQuat and Debbie Wiazek and nieces and nephews Jill and Julie McQuat, Melissa and Sarah Ringer and Brittany, Jacob and Joey Wiazek.Rick was born October 26, 1947 in Melville, Saskatchewan. Because his father was a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, he grew up in numerous communities around Saskatchewan and Ontario before his family finally settled in Peterborough.
Rick finished Grade 13 by correspondence while working on the construction of the Peterborough Police Station. After completing his BA in Political Science at Carleton University, he worked for the Ontario Assessment Office for a short time before joining the federal government to work in employment and economic development.
His vast knowledge of economics and history combined with his ever-present kindness and respect for others made him ideal for his work in community economic development. He would go into communities hit by industrial change to support them in developing solutions. When he arrived, he would know no one. It was up to him to make his way around, find the right people and assist them in forming strategies for the future. He was effective, well liked and respected.
Rick was notorious for his love of irony and sense of humour. Over the years he enjoyed playing hockey, baseball, squash and tennis as well as watching sports and reading - particularly history, politics, economics and current events. He excelled at all games requiring general knowledge.
Rick’s family would like to express their appreciation to Dr. Ghalib Alasaad and the staff at the Juravinski Cancer Cantre.
A celebration of Rick’s life will be held on June 9, 2024 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at 113 Queen Street in St. Catharines. Friends and family may pay tribute by cherishing their memories and raising a glass to this very funny, very smart and very warm man.
Service Information
A Celebration of Life
Date: June 9, 2024Start Time: 2:00 pm
End Time: 4:00 pm
Venue: 113 Queen Street in St. Catharines
https://maps.app.goo.gl/DXsTtiMh5eCwwgvk8
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I was wanting to get in touch with Rick. We were friends for many years from our high school days at G.A
Wheable in London Ontario to a few years in Ottawa. My wish was the hope we could reconnect so both of us could rehash the fun times we had in the past. Rest well Rick, you will be missed.
Dave (Skip) Noseworthy
My deepest condolences to all of Rick’s family. It’s been a long time since we worked together and the last time I saw him was probably at the EDB reunion that I believe Patti had a hand in organizing. I still have many fond memories of Rick with his sharp wit and wonderful sense of humour. The camaraderie of that group from across the province was a highlight of my work experience and Rick was a standout.
My heart goes out to you all!
I have many great memories of spending time with Rick. We worked together in the federal public service in the 1980s and early 1990s and I always enjoyed working with Rick and his approach to his work. Our trip to the 1983 Grey Cup in Vancouver and a few Mexican trips to Isla Mujeres do stand out as particularly special and memorable. RIP my friend. My sympathies to Patti, Adam, Julia and family.
I have very fond memories of Rick as a genial, knowledgeable and insightful colleague when we worked together in community economic development in the federal public service. I always enjoyed his company for his sharp, ironic wit and and infectious good humour. He will be remembered as a truly special, unique individual.
My sincere condolences to his family. May your memories give you peace and comfort.
I am sure this is a difficult time for all. As others who had the pleasure to work with Rick have said, being with Rick always lightened the burdens of work, deadlines and political pressure. He always seemed to have his priorities straight when it had to do with family and community. Toronto was never his favourite place to work and was much happier in home territory. Always astute and always playful is how I will remember him. All the best to the family.
One of my special memories of Rick was as our “Ringer” in Trivial Pursuit at Score Card Harry’s in Port Dalhousie. It was always more fun when Rick showed up, not only because he was so smart but he was also very funny. Eric and I send our love and big hugs to Adam and Julia and Patti, three very special friends. Wish we were closer at times like this. ❤️
All the best to Adam, Julia and Patti. I remember many fond days at your home in St Catharines when the kids were young. Rick always had many stories to tell and most were wildly humorous. Working with him, first in St C and then in Toronto was always a pleasure. His analysis of the politics of the office caught my ear often enough to gain my friendship and respect. Our last few visits in St C weeks before his death reminded me of his wit and wisdom. I’ll miss him deeply.
I am so sorry for your loss. I worked with Rick for many years, he in the Niagara Region and I in northern Ontario. We spent time together at the many regional meetings in Toronto and other centres around Ontario. Rick was a special person who was loved by all of his colleagues . Please let me know when his celebration of life is planned. If I am able I would love to attend. May he rest in peace.