We Remember
BINKLEY, Ricky “Rick”
August 1, 1958 — April 26, 2025
It is with heavy hearts and great love that we announce the loss of Rick Binkley, who passed away surrounded by family on April 26, 2025, at the age of 66.
Rick leaves behind a wealth of love, including his wife Trish of 44 years of marriage and 46 years as partners; children Elana Binkley (Joe Johnston), Jelea (Joel) Kistenfeger, and Robbie Binkley; grandchildren Brynn Johnston, Porter Johnston, Iris Kistenfeger, and Ronin Kistenfeger; and siblings Bob Binkley (Shirley Cook), Manse Binkley (Anna Hunt-Binkley), and Laurie (Kevin) Hooke. He will also be greatly missed by mother-in-law Dorothy Smith-Harris; sisters-in-law Jeannie (Grant) Watson, Lea Johnson, and Ann Feliksiak Smith (Mark Ruppe) ; brothers-in-law Rob Smith (Lisa Clarke), and Tom Smith (Cyndi Jackson); nephews Casey, Brock, and Quinn, Brandon (Michelle), Donovan, Tyler (Gabby), and Kyle; and nieces Hailey (Derek), Kara (Chuck), Kristen, Ashleigh (Pat), Chelsea (Ivan), Mikayla, Mattie (Alex), Emma (Brett), and Alyssa (Chris).
He now goes to join those who passed before him, including his parents Vic and Mae Binkley and father-in-law, Don Smith.
Born and raised in Brandon, Manitoba. Rick’s childhood was lively, between growing up in Brandon and summers spent at the family cottage in Clear Lake, the memories flow endlessly. Listening to the stories from family to friends; he clearly had a one of a kind personality. Clear Lake is where I met this cute redhead, a blind date, me from Neepawa Manitoba; and not sure what to expect; but the connection and love was instant. Rick made life a joy, fun factor was first of hand, and we had many, many adventures in our life together. But the most beautiful adventure of all was raising our 3 amazing children. Rick loved nothing more than teaching them the way of the mountains snow skiing/snowboarding, loved our boating time- waterskiing then wake surfing throw in a little wakeboarding (kids only) and the odd tube ride, mountain biking, hiking and every televised sport there was, the list is endless. We had the time of our lives. The new next level of adventure in our lives; our grandchildren and we have 4 precious little ones, Iris 8 years, Ronin 5 years, Brynn 7 years and Porter 3 years. We are truly blessed, the action packed fun…. Endless.
Ricks career path was adventurous as well, whisking our family off to the Yukon in ’92, then Alberta in ’99, retiring early and loving our lake life in BC and winters in Arizona. We couldn’t have had anything more beautiful.
We are missing you Rick, your famous quote to me, “follow me, you will go places”, and we sure did.
Our family would like to express many thanks to the healthcare staff from Trail to Kelowna, Hospice House Kelowna, family, friends and to all the support staff.
In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to the Hospice House Kelowna.
We will remember you forever, let the “tunes” flow, Rick; you love your music.
Sending all our Love to you Rick, Dad (“Papa Surf”) & Grandpa.
A Private Celebration of Life will be held in Rick’s honour at a later date.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area call “Condolences”.
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Hospice House Kelowna Link: www.hospicehousekelowna.com
Condolences
My uncle Rick, the funnest of uncles. You were the wild one, the one I most related to through my life. I admired the way you lived, no matter what anyone thought it was a life well lived. Thank you for the memories, for taking the time to meet my daughters in Osoyoos. Thank you for hosting us at Christina Lake and taking us out on the boat. These are memories I will always cherish. Music and laughter, jokes for days, and some of the best stories ever. Thank you, for being you. You will be missed so very much. Your marriage filled with love will always inspire me.
Rock on uncle, and fly high.
Kara
I just found out about Rick’s passing. Our most sincere condolences to all the Binkley family. He had an extremely nice personality, and was a pleasure to visit with when we ran into each other here in Brandon many years ago. May his memory be eternal. Bob and Angela Pappas
My condolences to Trish and the rest of the families, memories flash back from the days working with Rick at Binkley Motors. He was a very fun person to be around, May your memories of the time spent together bring BIG smiles to all.
Lt: Gerald Ferguson
Trish and family, our deepest condolences, may all the wonderful memories get you thru this trying time
We are so sorry to hear about Rick. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Our hearts are broke.ln with the news. You were great AZ neighbors and friends! Prayers to all! ❤️🙏🏼🤣
We are so sorry to hear of Rick’s passing. My condolences Trish. Please reach out if you
need anything.. Cathy and Rick (Lake Havasu/Nelson)
To: Bob, Manse, Laurie, & family,
My thoughts are with all of you at this time.
Craig Manson
Campbell River, BC
My heart goes out to you and your family, Trish. Sending love and prayers to help you through this very difficult time.
Rick was a friend you could always count on to be there for whatever the task. He always had a positive outlook on whatever we did.
Our adventures throughout our friendship were always a fun time. In the summer it was filled with waterski events , whether setting up the ski club or running tournaments was always an adventure and included many fun social events that will be fondly remembered. In the winter, curling in the Alexander men’s curling bonspiel always added more fun and many stories.
I am thankful for the time we had together growing up and will always have a special spot in my heart and my memories.
The bond our families had while raising our kids in Brandon and the contact that continued after you mived from Brandon will be cherished for the rest of my life. Thank you.
To Trish, Elana, Jelea, Robbie and extedended family please accept our condolences and kind thoughts through this hard time..
We love you all.
Bill, Birgit, Leah and PJ
Our Condolences to Trish and family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. We will miss his friendly smile and fun conversations we shared at Christina Lake.
Rick was the most genuine boss I have ever had. I was a server at Pizza Hut and I remember being so intimidated when Rick would be at work. I quickly learned that he was actually the greatest mentor. I remember bringing back a stack of dishes and catching Rick at the dishwasher. I was a bit alarmed; shouldn’t the owner be in the office? He said to me he was doing the most important job in the whole restaurant at that point and to never under estimate how valuable a dishwasher is to the business. Rick was so humble, funny and gracious. His memory will stay with me as will that lesson. I have always held my managers to that standard after that. Very few have matched up. Sending you all love and light during this difficult grief journey.
So sorry to hear this sad news. Our sincere condolences to you, Trish, and your family. He had a wicked sense of humor! May he rest in peace.
So very sorry to hear this sad news. Our condolences to Trish and the family. We will always remember his daily trips past our place at Christina Lake to his boat and his forever cheerful encouragement to get out and enjoy that beautiful lake. May all your happy memories comfort you at this time and the knowledge that he was loved by many and will be greatly missed.
Dear Trish & family -Thinking of you with sincere sympathy at this sad time of Rick’s illness & passing. We always seemed to run into each other when we were out on our bikes. These “bike riding visits” will always be a great memory! Sometimes in the Huckleberry market parking lot, on the nature park trail or by the highway in the heat of the day. Always good chats.
Wishing you comfort & strength,
Rick & Arlene Christina Lakeside Resort
Deepest condolences for Trish and family. Thinking of you all❤️
I met Rick and his family at Castle. He was a person you didn’t forget. My condolences to family and friends.
Uncle Rick, you had energy and a zest for life like no one else. I will never forget your big laugh and those chuckles! You contributed to some of the most fun parts of my childhood, what a privilege it was to have a fun Uncle like you. May you rest in peace knowing your legacy lives on through Elana, Jelea and Robbie, your grandkids and especially through the love Auntie Trish has for you.
Trish and family, heartfelt condolences to you all. I always think of your family when I remember my own Yukon adventure. We had lots of laughs at Pizza Hut! We were all so lucky to know him. You’re all in my thoughts. Much love!!
Condolences to Trish , Elana, Jelea, Robbie and all your family.
I have some great memories of biking in Lethbridge with Rick and playing hooky to ski weekday powder at Castle. Rest easy Rick you were an inspiration to me to work hard but play even harder, thank-you for that!
Condolences to Trish, Elana, Jelea and Robbie and families. We here in Whitehorse have many fond memories of Rick and your whole family in our shared adventures. Best wishes to you all. And an extra big hug.
I will always remember Rick by his big personality and big heart.
I had the pleasure of meeting him about 20 years ago. I feel grateful for the times I was able to join his family; whether it be for a meal, a road trip or occasions at the lake.
I always felt welcomed and supported by him and Trish, they accepted me and treated me as one of their family.
He always knew how to crack a joke at the right time and keep the mood light.
Rick was the kind of guy that would always be cheering you on and encouraging you to try your best.
The Binkley’s exposed me to so many sports that I never had the opportunity to do myself growing up. I have very fond memories of learning these skills surrounded by such an awesome group of people! I strive to create these kinds of experiences with my children & remind myself how far just one person’s belief in you, can take you.
Whether it was biking, hiking, wake surfing or skiing, the message was to get out there and have fun! I will always carry a little bit of that Binkley attitude with me.
Life is too short, get out there and live life to the fullest, like he did.
Love you Rick, you are one of a kind.
My Guy Rick-
The news of Rick’s passing was incredibly sad but also allowed me to sit back and think about all of the great memories that I was able to make with, and because of this man….and now I can’t wipe the smile off of my face. Although I have not seen Rick in many years, I think about him often. He played such a huge role in my personal and professional life, and I will be forever grateful for him. He introduced me to an industry that has now become my entire life…he gave me my start! He trusted me with great responsibility, led his teams with his own strong work ethic, vibrant outlook and always created a healthy and fun environment wherever he was. Rick ALWAYS had my back. Although Rick obviously had an incredible impact on his family, I hope that he knew the equally large impact he had on myself and the many young people that had the opportunity to be on his team or work side by side with the greatest boss ever. A mentor and a friend. I will never forget what this man did for me! My sincere condolences to Mama Trish, Elana, Jelea and Robbie- Your dad was a legend!
Very sad to learn of Rick’s passing and our sincere condolences to all the family. Rick was a terrific guy and a very good business partner. His sense of humour while a little dry at times delivered many laughs over the years and I’m sure he will be deeply missed by all that knew him.
RIP my friend.
Rick & Kelly Kille
My deepest condolences to all the Binkleys. I spent many years working for Rick and his family at Montana’s, Rick taught me so many skills as a young man that I still use today. I will always remember those years and that time in my life. I will forever be grateful for Rick
I was saddened to hear the news of Rick’s passing and we send our love and sympathy to Trish and family .May all of you find comfort in knowing your husband and Dads memory will long be remembered . When we first moved to Brandon Mb in late 1988 Rick and Trish became our rowdy neighbours and we certainly shared lots of laughs and fun times together . Memories include a night of fireworks being pulled down from the rafters of Rick and Trish garage and how we set them off late at night and almost caught the neighbours house on fire .
Memories of our fun times together makes my heart smile still to this day . A persons success isn’t measured by dollars , but rather the impact they made on the lives of others which he certainly did . Ricks smile , laughter and mischievous ways will always be remembered.
xoxo Marci Crisanti and family
Coffee Cookies & Character; my dear brother in law xo
Rick you made the best cup of coffee, always on!
Rick you are the ultimate Cookie Monster, not one cookie but several at a time of Trish’s best!
And Rick, I loved your teasing, your smile and that laugh!! You brought out the best in everyone, you are a presence, a character that will remain in our hearts forever ❤️
love you Ricky Rick ❤️
Trish, Elana (Joe), Jelea (Joel), Robbie and Iris, Brynn, Ronin and Porter – a little of Rick is living in you always and forever ❤️
Mona and I are so sorry to hear of Rick’s passing. I spent a lot of time with Rick at the Y, then working with him at Binkleys then as a partner in the Piizza Hut in Whitehorse. He was a great guy and was always a lot of fun to be around. Nobody was in better shape! He loved the outdoors and in the later years we always enjoyed running into Trish and Rick in Lake Havasu where they were putting miles on walking or biking…Rick and Trish were a perfect match for each other. You could see the love for each other every time we met them. . He will be sorely missed…our condolences to Trish and her family and to Bob,Manse,Laurie and families..
I’ve got a few stories I’ll never forget. One time Robbie had some homework to do on a Friday, but he also had people over and Rick came home from Montana’s, walked in, and kicked everyone out. He was not happy with Robbie that day.
Then there were the Christina Lake trips. I remember showing up and Trish would be making a healthy dinner, and there was Rick in his leather chair, rolling one up, asking me where the beer was. So off I’d go to grab him a 24-pack so we could have dinner in the motorhome and hit the boat for an evening ride.
Your mom always had snacks ready, the tunes were going, and Rick was quick to call out my wakeboarding, especially how I only ever jumped from the left side. He’d shout, “Jump from the right, Corbin! Don’t be a pussy!”
He was a good man and friend. I’ll always remember those moments. ☮️❤️
Condolence to Trish,elana,jelea,Robbie. Rick had a great sense of humour and he was a genuine human being, he helped me when I got in a bind and I’m forever grafeful❤️
Condolences to the Binkley Family🙏 I first met Rick and the family when they opened up The Montanas Restaurant in Lethbridge, Alberta. Rick was one of my favourite bosses as he had faith and trust in his management team he hand picked to open his new adventure! I felt he treated us like one of his family members. There was one time I thought Rick was going to loose his sh!t on me! I had locked my keys in the office one evening and didn’t want to call him to come down to the store and open the door. The crew and I came up with a plan.. one of the guys was going to climb up onto the freezer, take off one of the celling panels and slide down into the office. Well let’s just say it didn’t work out like we planed. Next thing you know, the crew member fell through the ceiling of the office and half the ceiling tiles came down crashing with him to the floor! Don’t worry the crew member was all right. As I panic on how I was going to explain this to Rick. He laughed it off and just told me to make sure I fix the roof!!!
This is one example of what kind of person Rick was. Instead of scolding me he laughed it off, we all make bad decisions sometimes and that was one of mine. He wanted you to learn from your mistakes.
Rest in peace Rick, you will always be missed🙏
My heartfelt condolences to all who are mourning Rick—especially Trish, Elana, Robbie, Jelea and Rick’s grandkids. I’ve shared some of the very BEST times of my life with the members of this family, and I’m so grateful for those memories.
One of my favorite memories of Rick is a weekend out at Christina Lake. I’ll never forget watching him absolutely shred on the wake surf for what felt like 30 minutes straight—like an absolute boss. I think he was close to 60 at the time, too. We laughed so much that day, and his energy was contagious.
From the moments I shared with him, one thing stood out: Rick pushed people to be their best. He wasn’t the kind of person—or dad—to sit on the sidelines and watch you settle for less than what you were capable of. Not everyone has it in them to call people out and say, “You can do better”—but Rick did. I’m thankful for the day he did that for me, because the truth is… I did do better.
I’m also deeply grateful that he passed that same spirit on to his kids. His daughter has done that for me many times—encouraging me, pushing me, and being there through it all. And I’m even more thankful that he taught his kids how to have FUN and make the most out of life, because they’ve been amazing friends to adventure and do life with.
Rick left an impact that’s still rippling through the lives of the people he loved. I feel lucky to have been a small part of that.
Rick Binkley was the kind of leader you never forget. He wasn’t just a boss- he was a fierce leader. The kind of person who believed in you before you believed in yourself. He had this incredible ability to motivate you— not through pressure, but through purpose. Rick led with passion, wore his heart on his sleeve, and set the tone for what hard work and heart could really look like.
He inspired excellence in everything we did, rolled up his sleeves when the team needed him most, and held strong to the belief that if you’re going to show up- show up ready to work hard and give your best!! But somehow, he made it fun. He created an environment where lifelong friendships were formed.
You left this world far too soon, so glad you lived life to the fullest and were surrounded by those who love you most. 🤍
On behalf of the McCann/Lyons families (Tom Lyons) we send our deepest condolences to the Binkley family. Rest in Peace Rick🌾
It was one of those long weekends we looked forward too. A get together of the Smith siblings and spouses. A chance for us to relax together and let the cousins figure stuff out.
This weekend was in Regina and after a stressful day of parenting (watching golf) the guys headed off for a boys night out.
During a lull in the action Rick and I were chatting and he started talking about Trish. He spoke of how much she meant to him, how she was his best friend, how she always had his back, how she was his everything. Being married to sisters offered a lot of similarities in our relationships and these conversations would reoccur over the years, usually during an early morning boat ride or late around the fire but over 40 years the theme never changed. Rick had found his soulmate and he knew how fortunate he was.
Rest easy brother.
We are so sorry to hear of the loss of Rick. Cherish all your memories at the lake.
Our deepest sympathy and condolences.
How my heart sank in saddness and disbelief to learn of Rick’s passing. I simply smile remembering him and especially how sweet your love was and always will be, Trish. Thinking of you and your family, the entire Binkley family and all who loved Rick so ~ his light shines on forever in you all.
Sincerely,
Aeleen xx
Sending much love to you all. Rick was truly such a kind man! Prayers from Lindsey & Malchow Families
I just saw that Rick passed and I’m really sad to hear this. I met him in Whitehorse and mountain biked and shared tailgate beers with him and other friends over quite a few summers. He picked me up in Lethbridge in 2001 when I was headed to college and offered me a place to stay and helped me find an apartment, but not before I helped trap the ground squirrels causing trouble under your deck. I visited with him a few times at Montana’s and shared my stories with him over a beer but lost track over the years.
I’m sorry for your loss, Rick was a great guy and I’ll always remember his generosity and help when I was feeling totally lost when I first got down to Lethbridge.
Our deepest sympathy to Trish, Elana, Jelea, Robbie and family members. It is with a heavy heart that our family extends our love on the passing away of Rick/Uncle Rick.. When we think of Rick, we can hear his roaring laughter and see that amazing smile that went from ear to ear. Oh and how he loved his precious wife Trish and wonderful children Elana, Jelea, and Robbie and of course the adorable grandchildren! It was wonderful to have had him be part of the family. May his memory remain in your hearts forever. Love Deb, Donavon, Brandon, and Michelle
My heartfelt prayers go out to the entire Binkley and Smith families—especially to Trish, Elana, Jellea, and Robbie. I hope you find comfort and peace as you navigate the loss of your devoted husband and father.
Rick was strong-willed and determined to the very end. Those qualities led him down a life path few could have imagined, and once his mind was made up, there was no turning back. His focus was singular—whatever he set out to do, it had to be done.
Though our lives eventually moved in different directions, I feel truly grateful for the time we shared. I’ll always remember the laughter, the energy, and the way Rick embraced life with everything he had. He made sure those around him felt it too.
May his memory be a blessing.