Richard Rees

Richard Rees, age 88, passed away Thursday, July 26, 2018 at the Cypress Regional Hospital, Swift Current, SK. Richard Orland Rees was born in Swift Current on July 8, 1930 to William Cornelius & Agnes Caroline (nee Olson) Rees. Richard grew up on the family farm north of Swift Current and received his education at Ruskin Flats and Swift Current Collegiate. After completing school, Richard was employed by Canada Safeway and later by McDonalds Consolidated in Calgary, AB. He decided to return to Saskatchewan and purchased land in the Cantuar area.

On June 6, 1952 Richard married Donelda Margrete Karius. He began his career with Federal Grain first at Waldeck, SK, then was transferred to Webb, SK before being transferred to Swift Current in 1969. After the sale of Federal Grain to the Saskatchewan Wheat Pool in 1974, Richard continued managing the Eastend operation until he retired in July of 1990. Richard & Donelda enjoyed traveling in Europe, Florida, and later to Arizona for two months each winter. Richard enjoyed sports throughout his life and played baseball as a young man. In later years he enjoyed curling, golfing, playing duplicate bridge, and bowling. His faith was very important to him and he was an active member of Mount Calvary Lutheran Church for most of his life, serving on the Board of Elders and as financial secretary for many years.

Richard was predeceased by his mother, Agnes Rees, December 16, 1955; his father, William Rees, August 15, 1980; his brother, William Jr., in infancy; his sisters, Phyllis (Rex) Martin and Lucille (Fred) Hofelzer; and by his nephew, Garry Martin. Richard is survived by his wife of 66 years, Donelda Rees; and by his nieces, nephews and their families, Ron (Ardith) Meyers, Wayne (Lynn) Meyers, Carla Rodway, Darlene (Randy) Mayer, and Della (Don) Bolze.

The Funeral Service for Richard Rees was held on Tuesday, July 31, 2018 at 1:30 pm from Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, Swift Current, SK with Rev. Brad Julien officiating. “Just as I Am” and “Precious Lord, Take My Hand” were sung by the congregation, with Christine Hanel serving as pianist. Special music was brought by Donna Wilhelm, who sang “When Peace, Like a River.” The obituary was read by Ron Meyers. The ushers in the church were Ralph Schmiess and Glen Miller. The Interment Service was held from Hillcrest Cemetery, Swift Current, SK with Lloyd Hinks, Craig Busch, Allen Blanke, Ray Knowlton, Leander Buhr, and Lloyd Busch serving as Pallbearers. In memory of Richard Rees, donations made to Mount Calvary Lutheran Church would be appreciated by the family.

"My most heartfelt thanks and appreciation from the family members for your participation, attendance, memorials, cards, food, Pastor Julien and the lunch served by Mt. Calvary Ladies Missionary League, the many miles travelled by some and the love and support throughout the days following the passing of Richard has touched me deeply. Richard would have been pleased. Special thanks to Richard’s doctors and nursing staff." Donelda Rees

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