Richard W. Gunson

Richard W. Gunson (July 25, 1951 - February 6, 2025)

It is with heavy hearts that the family announce the passing of Richard W. Gunson (Rick) who passed away peacefully on February 6, 2025 at Lions Gate Hospital at the age of 73, surrounded by family. Rick was born on July 25th, 1951 in Vancouver, BC. He was the beloved husband to Wendy for over 49 years and raised their four children in Burnaby.

Rick loved the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing — often sharing those peaceful moments with his close friends including Todd, a companion who became like a younger brother. Rick had a deep affection for animals and often found joy in caring for them. His compassion for all living creatures was a reflection of his kind spirit.

Cooking was one of Rick’s favourite pastimes, and his friends and family always looked forward to his wonderful meals. He believed in family first, spending his weekends taking loved ones on adventures around the city in his trusty 12-seater van.

Rick spent his career in the automotive business, valuing the relationships he formed with his co-workers and customers, many of whom followed him from workplace to workplace.

Following his retirement to the Sunshine Coast, he found peace in his garden, cultivating a wide array of vegetables and flowers while enjoying the thrill of experimenting with different plant varieties. His garden was a sanctuary, one that he, Wendy, and their visitors enjoyed year round.

Rick is survived by his wife, Wendy; his four children, Colette Abbott (Mark), Kristy Colina (Sean); Blythe Gunson, and Richard Gunson; his sister, Freda McIlvena (Laurie); four grandchildren (Silas, Makenzie, Felix, and Stella); and nephew, Duncan. He is predeceased by parents Gerald and Christina Gunson.

A celebration of life will take place at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Rick’s honour can be made to the Wildlife Rescue Association of BC, a place where he took several injured animals during his lifetime: https://www.wildliferescue.ca/?form=FUNZEUTWAQP

His warmth, spontaneous sense of humour, and the meals that brought the family together will be deeply missed by all who knew him.