Ronald James Richards, in his 87th year passed away peacefully on Sunday July 31st at Stratford Hospital after a long battle with Alzheimer’s and with his beloved wife Rosemarie at his bedside. Ron was a native of Stratford. His interest in the Navy led him to be a Naval Cadet during WW II and he attained the status of an officer. His interest in figure skating led him to meeting his future wife on the ice at the Stratford Arena. Ron and Rosemarie celebrated 63 years of marriage in January of 2016. Ron was involved in the financial industry most of his working life. He attained the accreditation of Chartered Life Underwriter early in his career. He served as President of the YM/YWCA during the time of the fund raising and construction of the current building. He also served as President of the Red Cross. Ron served as a Trustee on the Perth County Board of Education for 11 years. He was granted the status of Life Member by Lions Canada and was an active member of the Stratford Lions Club for many decades. Ron was a world traveler. With his wife Rosemarie at his side he traveled to 39 countries on six continents. He is survived by his wife Rosemarie, sons Matthew (Linda), Michael (Arlene), grandchildren Alexander, Nicholas and Rebecca, Ryan and Stephanie. He is pre-deceased by his parents, Herbert and Ivey and brother Ray. Ron will rest at the James A. Rutherford Funeral Home, 156 Albert Street, Stratford with visitation Wednesday August 3rd from 7:00pm to 9:00pm. Funeral service will be held at St. James Anglican Church in Stratford, Thursday August 4th at 11:00am. As expressions of sympathy, memorial donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada or the St. James Anglican Church Building Fund through the funeral home by calling 519-271-5062. In Ron’s memory, a Book of Memories is online at www.jarfh.com
