Richard Steven Adamic
June 10, 1946 - January 9, 2024
Richard Adamic, a man of boundless curiosity, unwavering resilience, and deep family devotion, left this world on January 9, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love and laughter that will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Born in Edmonton on June 10, 1946 to parents Steve and Elsie (Chimera) Adamic, Richard grew up alongside his two sisters, Gwen and Pat, and a brother, John, affectionately known as Jack. Life took an unexpected turn when his father passed away when Richard was just 16, thrusting him into the role of the man of the house. This early responsibility shaped Richard into the determined and hardworking individual he would become.
Richard's love for tinkering and fixing cars was kindled during his time at a garage in Thorsby. Although he initially aspired to become a math teacher, health challenges intervened when he had his appendix and tonsils removed, leading him to begin working at Amoco Canada in Drayton Valley.
Richard met Brenda on a blind date, and they married on August 29, 1969. Together, they navigated the journey of life, welcoming two daughters into the world—Lesley in 1974 and Colleen in 1976. Richard's devotion to his family was unwavering, providing them with a foundation of love and support.
Richard's professional journey led the family to diverse corners of the world, with assignments taking them to Cairo, Egypt in 1976 and later to Manila, Philippines. In 1988, they settled in Olds, where Richard dedicated his talents to BP Oil until his well-deserved retirement at the age of 59.
The heartbeat of Richard's life was his family, including his daughters Lesley and Colleen and their husbands Jake and David, and the joy of his existence radiated through his seven grandchildren: Courtney (Chris), Dakota (Mitchell), Morgan, Marina, Jackson, Michael and Carson. His eyes would light up with pure delight whenever they were around, creating cherished moments that will forever be etched in the family's collective memory.
The garage, lovingly referred to as his castle, became Richard's sanctuary. He spent countless hours tinkering and fixing everything and anything Richard's love extended beyond his garage to his lawn tractor, his meticulously tended yard, and, above all, to his cherished family. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, love, and a commitment to family that will forever be etched in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.
We will always remember the lessons taught to us like a gentle reminder to change our oil and make sure our winter tires are on. In loving memory, we stand together at the end of the driveway, waving, as Richard takes his final drive away.
As a tribute to Richard's memory, the family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers or cards, donations be made to either Diabetes Canada or the Alzheimer's Foundation.
My heartfelt condolences to you all…Brenda, Colleen and Lesley and the entire extended Adamic family on the passing of Richard. Hugs to you all at this difficult time. Thinking of you, Marlene Crippin and family.