Richard "Richie" Andre Leclaire
August 2, 2020
It is with broken hearts that we announce the sudden passing at home of Richard Andre Leclaire August 2 at the age of 64 years. Rich was born to Eugene and Mary Leclaire in Didsbury where he lived his entire life with the majority of his years on the family farm.
During his high school years a hockey scout witnessed Richie’s natural talent as a goaltender and he was invited to play with the Smithers Nats in the northern BC Junior league. From there he was called up to the Vancouver Nats in the WCHL then traded to the Calgary Centennials in the WCHL before deciding to come home where he spent a brief time with the Olds Grizzlies.
Richies life revolved around family and friends, riding his Harley Davidson motorcycles, working on his vintage cars, spoiling his dogs and cats and many stray pets that arrived including a skunk at one time! He had a passion for collectables and had a broad knowledge of their meaning and history. He was a talented carpenter and roofer and was well known by many for his meticulous work.
A confirmed bachelor his whole life, Rich lived life on his terms. He had a kind, generous and gentle nature and was very supportive of family and those he cared about, never afraid to voice or show how much they meant to him. A loyal son, brother, uncle, great uncle and friend to so many, Richie will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts.
Richie is lovingly remembered by his siblings, Lorraine Campbell (Ron), Roger Leclaire, Nan Volker (Joe), Sue Sylvestre, Kathy Heffernan (Kevin), and Jen Robertson (Steve). He also leaves his nephews, Darron Campbell (Shannon), Cameron Campbell (Patti), Logan Sylvestre, Luke Sylvestre, and Cole Robertson; nieces, Lindsay Miller (Jeff), Amy Leclaire, Hannah Leclaire, and Jocelyn Leclaire; his great nephews, Noah Campbell, Carter Campbell, Zack Miller and Blake Miller; great nieces, Emma Campbell and Brooklyn Campbell. Richie is also survived by many good friends, extended relatives and his loyal dog buddy named Buzz. He was predeceased by his mom and dad, Eugene and Mary Leclaire; and his youngest brother, Danny Leclaire.
If friends desire, memorial donations can be made to ARTS Senior Animal Rescue at www.animalrescuetransfersociety.com or the Veterans Food Bank at veteransassociationfoodbank.ca
Family to hold a private Graveside Service with a celebration of life to be planned for a later date. Messages of condolence may be left for the family at www.myalternatives.ca.
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Messages of Condolence
We were shocked to hear of the passing of Ritchie, our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family. We wish you peace and comfort as you grieve. The Marstons ~ Tom Marston
My sincerest condolences to my childhood friends Sue, Nan and Roger of the passing their brother and another good childhood friend of mine: Richie. The Leclaire's were a central part of my early life. Richie and I spent much time together on our motorbikes. ~ Jerry Janzen
So sorry to hear of Ritchie's passing. Mart has fond memories of playing slowpitch against him. He was a good athlete and a kind friendly man. Condolences to the whole family. ~ Marty and Yvonne Overguard
Dave and I were so sorry to hear of Ritchie’s passing. He was a part of our Didsbury school years. Our condolences to everyone. ~ Debra Jepson
Richie was and is such a kind and gentle soul. He always made me feel special as a “little sister”. All my thoughts and love to the whole family. ~ Sheila (Robertson) Thumlert
We are saddened to hear of your loss. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time. ~ Herb and Donna Gole
My deepest condolences to you and all the family Ritchie will be missed by many not only family but the many friends that he had. RIP brother will miss the great talks we had. ~ Larry Eyes Novak
Deepest condolences to the family. RIP Richie. Will miss our car and Harley chats and Happy Birthday wishes on July 3. You left us all too soon and will be missed by many. ~ Mary Cardinal
My deepest sympathies to your family! My thoughts and prayers go out to you all at this very difficult time! He will be missed! ~ Vola Gurnett
So sorry to all the family of The passing of Ritchie. ~ Linda & Tony Van Holland
I am so sad to hear about Richie! My condolences to you Lorraine, Nan, Sue, Kathy, Roger and Jen! I have many fond memories and he will be in my heart forever! ~ Lorraine Brown
I was browsing the internet and ran across Richie's obituary. I am shocked and saddened to realize that I will never see my friend that I always thought that I would cross paths with once again. ~ Jim Horne