Today, we gather not in sorrow, but in gratitude for the beautiful life of a remarkable man — a husband, a father, a friend, a quiet strength in every storm.
Obituary
It is with deep love and heartfelt remembrance that we announce the passing of our beloved father, whose kindness, wisdom, and unwavering devotion shaped the lives of all who knew him. He was a man of quiet strength — gentle in word, steadfast in action, and endlessly generous in spirit. His laughter could warm a room, and his presence brought comfort and calm to those around him.
He found joy in life’s simple moments: time spent with family, the beauty of nature, and the satisfaction of a job well done. To his children, he was a source of guidance and unconditional love; to his friends, a loyal companion; to all, an example of integrity and grace.
Though he has left this world, his love endures — in the stories we share, the lessons we carry, and the hearts forever changed by his life. He will be deeply missed and eternally cherished. - John, David, Andrew, Richard
Richard Graham
A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend. After a long and valiant struggle, Richard passed away surrounded by family, leaving behind a legacy of love, hard work, and cherished memories. Born on December 24, 1942, in Carlisle, England. As a young boy, his family moved to Zimbabwe, Africa. Years later, at a chance meeting at a dinner party with mutual friends, Richard met the future love of his life, Rita Foley. They married on Aug 20, 1966, settling in Mombasa, Kenya.
Richard’s career started as a meat cutter in Kenya, joining Woodwards when they immigrated to Calgary, AB Canada in 1975. This eventually took him to settle in Sherwood Park, AB becoming the regional meat buyer. In 1991 he started with New Zealand Lamb, finishing out his career back in Calgary, AB as the district manager of Western Canada.
Richard and Rita were blessed with four children: John, David, Andrew and Richard. He leaves behind his wife Rita, his sons, his daughters-in-law; Teresa, Diana and Maria, and his beloved grandchildren; Matthew, Dylan, Jacob, Kyle, Catherine & Benjamin. Richard was fortunate to witness his grandson Dylan’s wedding to Laine on Oct 25, 2025, before his passing.
Richard was first and foremost about family. He enjoyed organizing family holidays and celebrations. Many family gatherings were centered around meals – particularly meat! His favorite times were either in Mexico, Montana or Canmore with the family, or in his backyard garden. For him, sharing a meal and “happy hour” with family was the best part of every day.
He left an incredible mark on the lives of his immediate family, his extended family and friends. Anyone who met him enjoyed the sparkle in his eyes, his humor, his love of life. He will be remembered always.
Special Moments
Special Thoughts
Keith
My dear big sister Rita, I am in awe of the love and devotion you showed to Richard. Your tender care and unwavering commitment allowed him to remain in his beloved home until his journey’s end.
With love and sympathy,
Fiona
I am so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you during this difficult time. Richard always welcomed me when I would show up at the back door with a smile and conversation. We shared a love of desserts (he always had an eye out for the treats we brought) and being with friends. He will be missed.
Big hugs to all of you!
It has been some years since we last saw each other but since
learning of Richard's passing, I have spent the last day or so reflecting
on all the good times with Richard and yourself as members of
The Lamb Company.
Take care,
John & Linda Dolan.
Leanne Atkins
XOXOX
Diane & Judson
Farewell Richard!
Christine & Kevin Foley
I am so sorry to hear the news of Uncle Rich’s passing and sending you all our love and condolences.
He embodied that hardy Graham spirit, a spirit ever present in all of Stanley and Kate’s descendants, and a man who was able to look adversity in eye and triumph time and time again. A truly remarkable man and one that I wish I had got to know better over the years.
May he rest in peace and may his life be celebrated by all his close family.
❤️ Alistair, Elisabeth and Grace
We’ve known each other a long time. 81 years, 211 days and 4 hours, to be precise. Being just 15 months apart in age, we seemed to share a common interest in being adventurous and curious which inevitably led to many troublesome situations. It didn’t seem to worry me (or you, for that matter) Maybe I instinctively knew you would always protect me and bail me out And being war time babies born in somber England where everything was about survival, there seemed to be a freedom about growing up that enabled us to express our true essence without parents hovering around.
From the beginning, it seemed to me that you were as steadfast as a rock and I delighted in your unfailing sense of humour. That inimitable chuckle and mischievous smile were always present. Growing up you were chubby and cheerful.
Those weekends and holidays on family farms at, Cassondyke and Dykesfield, with grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins, were such a privilege. To experience that down to earth (literally) lifestyle - mucking out byres, driving tractors, bringing in the hay, collecting mushrooms on Solway Firth forays at the crack of dawn, selling produce from Billy Bell’s tractor / cart in the alley lanes of Carlisle. It was what old movies are made of.
In the scarcity that prevailed in post-war England, having to divide a candy four ways amongst the siblings probably didn’t impress us at the time but clearly provided a good background and instilled you with values that stayed with you always. The ability to share, good work ethics, honesty, fairness, respect for others, dedication, resilience, loyalty, plus a fierce fighting spirit never to give up (and this was evident to your last breath).
All of this translated to a true and unwavering devotion to your family. You’ve been the most incredibly loyal and devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend. Your legacy continues.
You are loved and your presence will be missed and you will never be forgotten.
Rest In Peace, dearest brother. The time is right
With love from your little sister, Mary, who was always trying to catch up
We have so many fond memories of sharing beers, G&Ts, and wonderful meals together.
Richard will be forever missed by us
Love and prayers to Rita and the whole family.
Linda and Jerry xoxo
Even in the face of challenges, Richard carried himself with grace, gratitude, and an unshakeable trust in God. I am grateful for the time I had to know him — for the conversations, the laughter, and the quiet lessons he shared simply by being who he was.
Though I only had the privilege of knowing him for just over a year, Richard's impact is profound and lasting. He will be dearly missed, but the warmth of his spirit and the example of his faith in the Lord will continue in many ways to live on in all who were blessed to know him.
Farewell Richard. My condolence to Rita and family.
Service
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