Richard Dale Andrews
Posted May 17, 2023 | 8:22 AM
Richard (Rick) Dale Andrews lived in Vernon, BC and passed away the morning of May 13, 2023 after a long but courageous battle against Parkinson’s with his loving wife (of over 50 years) Robyn at his side.
Rick was born 5 months premature in Calgary, Alberta in 1948 to Dick and Yvette Andrews . They said that he was so small they could cover his entire body (head to toe) with a facecloth. Thanks to modern medicine, incubators were brought in and Rick became a survivor. Rick was a brother to Wayne Andrews (spouse Rene, daughters Kristina and Rhea), Patricia Willoughby (spouse Laverne, sons Martin and Tom and daughter Loretta), Gary Andrews (daughter Lee and son Cam), Virginia Andrews (daughter Deanne and son Andrew), Cameron Andrews , Colin Andrews (spouse Sandy and sons Brian and Christopher) and Cheryl Lynn Andrews.
Rick met Robyn at the Tuxedo Hall Dance in Calgary, Alberta. Rick was smitten and asked her on a date to A&W and the two became inseparable. They married in January of 1970. All of Robyn’s family liked Rick and thought he made an excellent addition to the family. Robyn’s sisters are Terry (spouse Bill Negeman, daughters, Krista, Kathy and Karlin), Tracey (spouse Gary Mauch, daughters Stacey and Kari and son Grayson), Sherry (sons, Steven and Curtis, daughter Sarah), Wendy (spouse John Westlake, sons Matthew and Adam) and Kelly (spouse Jim Krueger, daughter Leah). All have many great stories to tell about their time with Rick.
Rick and Robyn started their family in October of 1972 after their daughter Cassandra was born. A proud Dad and dotting father. Rick would raise his girl to be strong and independent. Rick taught her to ride her first bike and drive her first car. They would go on trips together and have fun laughing along the way.
Rick worked at Canada Safeway as a truck driver to provide, making many great memories on the road. He was a hard worker and a great worker which proved to be a huge asset to the company. Rick remained an employee of Canada Safeway until he retired in 2006. He made many great friends throughout his career.
Rick’s life wasn’t always easy or even kind but he rarely complained and was able to find the good in everything
As a young adult Cassandra met Chris Letkeman and after a long courtship the two married in January of 2003, and started their own family. Courtney (born 2005) and Clarke (born 2007). Rick was so happy, grandkids at last. Although the families didn’t live close, Rick would always play with the kids. As the grandkids grew up, they would take Rick on roller coasters and other great rides. Rick loved all of it. The Letkeman’s were close to the only MLB field in Canada , taking Rick to games when they came, Something he truly enjoyed.
Rick loved, hockey, baseball, great jokes, James Bond movies, country music and family. Not expected to live after birth and taken far too soon, Rick lived a modest but impactful life. He will be missed dearly by family and friends. Nothing can fill the void he left behind. Rest in Peace Rick, we will all meet again someday.
A service will not be held for Rick but instead if you would like to make a donation in support please send it to: The Hamlets of Vernon 3050 – 29th Ave Vernon, BC V1T 9Y9. Attn: Director of Care, to be used for 2nd floor.
Arrangements entrusted to Pleasant Valley Funeral Home 250-542-4333