We Remember
FORSTER, Richard Alan “Rich”
January 14, 1945 — August 29, 2024
Born 14 January 1945 in Trail, BC, died 29 August 2024 in Kelowna, BC, aged 79.
Rich leaves behind beloved wife Helen Sparks, dear daughters Lisa (Darren Lett) and Shauna (Andrew Royes), and four cherished grandchildren, Julia & Simon Lett and Benjamin & Mia Royes. He was the son of George & Virginia Forster, brother of Helen (Pat) Perry, David (Candy) Forster, Margaret ‘Chris’ Frost (deceased) and Murray Forster (Lenora Angeles). Rich was predeceased by his wife, Sheila Forster, in 2019. Rich will also be fondly remembered by his many cousins, Forster & Pyle nieces & nephews, and many long-time friends.
Born & raised in Trail, BC, Rich moved to Vancouver, BC as a young adult and met Sheila Pyle there in 1972. Sheila and Rich married in 1973, living in Kamloops, BC from 1974 to 1984, then relocating to Kelowna, where they celebrated 46 years of marriage in 2019 before Sheila’s passing. He relished the role of ‘Gramps’ to his four grandchildren, born between 2007-2012, keeping close track of their milestones & accomplishments. Rich enjoyed a long career as an Engineering Technician with BCTel/Telus, retiring in 2002 and then volunteering extensively with the Telus Ambassadors. He was a long-time member of Sunset Ranch Golf & Country Club and the Kelowna Curling Club. Rich’s love language was ‘Acts of Service’ and he never hesitated to lend a hand to others, whether with physical labour, time, knowledge, or financial support. In this way, he touched many lives. Rich found a beautiful kindred spirit in Helen Sparks in 2020, and together they shared friends, new experiences, travel, and a deep love over the past four years.
Rich’s spirit lives on at the family cabin on Dominic Lake, a place for relaxation and rejuvenation since meeting Sheila more than 50 years ago.
Rich will be dearly missed by all who loved him.
Family & friends are welcome to come visit and exchange memories at a drop-in memorial reception on Friday, September 6, 2024, from 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm, in the Family Centre at Springfield Funeral Home, 2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area call “Condolences”.
Service
Friday, September 6, 2024 from 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm,
Location
SPRINGFIELD FUNERAL HOME Family Centre
Dear Helen, Lisa,, Shauna and family—Sending our condolences and Warm Hugs.
Dale Kent, Kelly, Jerry, Tracey and Fulton
We were sad to hear of Rick’s passing this past week. We know how much you meant to other. Our heart-felt condolences to you and Richard’s family as you grieve his loss.
Having attended 12 years of schooling, in Trail, with Richard, I remember well his friendly personality, quiet but humorous manner and handsome smile. His obituary shows he continued those traits and left a life time of GOOD memories. Kind thoughts are with you all.