Skip to content
July 24, 1963 - June 26, 2019
Derrick "Hoss" Richards passed away suddenly on June 26, 2019 at the age of 55 in Red Deer. Derrick was a proud army brat. Born to Ron and Carol Richards, both members of the Royal Canadian Air Force, Derrick's first posting was in Zweibrücken, Germany at the 3 Wing RCAF Base from birth to age 1. The family was then transferred back to Canada (CFB Downsview) and Derrick spent the next 15 years in Ontario. Alberta was the next family destination and then eventually settled in Stettler where Derrick graduated from Wm. E. Hay High School in 1982.
Derrick would go on to have a varied and successful career helping others. He was recognized many times, both locally and nationally, for his enduring service to others. His first, and enduring love, was firefighting. He taught at the Alberta Fire Training School in Vermilion, AB and went on to serve the Michener Fire Department where he rose to the rank of Deputy Chief. He retired from firefighting upon the department's closure but his passion for service to his country and fellow man carried on. During this period, he also joined the Alberta Public Service, becoming a residential care worker from 1988 until 2000. He then promoted to human resources, later specializing in Occupational Health and Safety. As an Emergency Medical Technician, he had a successful business teaching first aid and other lifesaving courses.
Derrick was loved by many for his immense creativity and ability to fix or build anything. He spent much time at his workbench and was known to pull all-nighters finishing school and other projects for family and friends.
Second only to his love for his family, was his commitment to the Scouts. This work began when he volunteered while his son Cody, was going through the program. Derrick was able to call on his fundraising skills and was integral in sending many scouts to national and international Jamborees.
Derrick was deeply dedicated to his family and is survived by his loving wife Kim and sons Cody (Emma) and Brandon; father Ron and brother Dick of Stettler, and sister Kim (Bob) of Calgary, as well as nieces and nephews: Nova, Devon, Lyndon (Barrett and Foster), Lucas, Tyson, Kenya, and Sam, as well as many other relatives and friends. He was predeceased by his mother Carol and his nephew Jaden.
Funeral Services will be held July 4, 2019 at 2 pm at the Gaetz Memorial United Church (4758 50 St, Red Deer). All are welcome. In lieu of flowers, donations to Scouts Canada, Red Deer 18th Morrisroe Scouts at giving@ scouts.ca would be welcomed. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.stettlerfuneralhome.com
Stettler Funeral Home & Crematorium entrusted with the care and funeral arrangements. 403-742-3422

 Stettler Funeral Home & Crematorium