Richard Graham
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
Post a message or share your memories and photos.
December 9, 2025
Rita,
I have just been wading through your photographs and realized there was a lot of drinking going on. How could I miss that?
We had a wonderful childhood in Cumberland. I have the same memories as Mary
Casson Dyke, Dykesfield mushrooms, farms, eggs, chicken, chickens, lots of family gathering and then of course it all ended when you moved to Africa, but Richard, you’re always in my heart RIP
I’m very sad, but we will meet again all of us God willing.
I have just been wading through your photographs and realized there was a lot of drinking going on. How could I miss that?
We had a wonderful childhood in Cumberland. I have the same memories as Mary
Casson Dyke, Dykesfield mushrooms, farms, eggs, chicken, chickens, lots of family gathering and then of course it all ended when you moved to Africa, but Richard, you’re always in my heart RIP
I’m very sad, but we will meet again all of us God willing.
November 19, 2025
Dearest Rita & Family,
Our deepest sympathy at this time. Richard was obviously much loved by his family and friends and got it back in spades. He was a gentle man, soft-spoken and will be missed greatly.
Best regards,
Janet and Stephen
Our deepest sympathy at this time. Richard was obviously much loved by his family and friends and got it back in spades. He was a gentle man, soft-spoken and will be missed greatly.
Best regards,
Janet and Stephen
November 18, 2025
To our dear Uncle Richard, may you rest in peace. You lived your life to the fullest and your legacy lives on. Your quiet and humble demeanor, combined with your unwavering resilience and integrity, has been such a strong role model for the whole family.
To Auntie Rita, John, David, Andrew, Richard and all your families, our thoughts are with you all at this time of great loss. We wish we could have been able to attend today's funeral and tribute in person, but we will be with you in spirit from PV.
Colin, Laurie, and family
To Auntie Rita, John, David, Andrew, Richard and all your families, our thoughts are with you all at this time of great loss. We wish we could have been able to attend today's funeral and tribute in person, but we will be with you in spirit from PV.
Colin, Laurie, and family
November 18, 2025
Uncle Richard, thank you for your consistent ever-giving kindness towards our Family over the years. You are missed & may you rest in peace.
Auntie Rita & Family, I wish you strength and recovery from Richard’s passing. He fought hard with your light. I hope your journeys, encompassed with Richard’s spirit, continue to flourish.
Cheers,
Andrew Davies
Auntie Rita & Family, I wish you strength and recovery from Richard’s passing. He fought hard with your light. I hope your journeys, encompassed with Richard’s spirit, continue to flourish.
Cheers,
Andrew Davies
November 16, 2025
Richard thank you for the good times we all spent together. You were dating Rita when I first met you and I eventually became a part of the family as your sister-in-law. Over the many years of knowing you we spent many memorable occasions at the cottage on the Shuswap lake BC. and during family get togethers in Calgary. I often envisage you sitting on your bar stool in Costa Rica having a beer at happy hour and sneaking another half beer without Ritas’ knowledge. Your bar stool will always be your bar stool. You and Rita took me under your wings whilst in Mombasa and I will always be grateful to you both. Richard, you endured failing health for several years with courage, determination and without complaint for which I admired. You are now in the presence of Almighty God, relieving you of your pain and suffering. May you Rest in peace.
Your Sister-in-law
Emma
Your Sister-in-law
Emma
November 16, 2025
Gods’ blessings to you Richard on your journey.
I first met you Richard in Kenya when I was all of fifteen years young. And over all those years you grew not just to be a brother-in-law but more of a brother to me. We spent many memorable, occasions together, rescuing me in Mombasa after my motorcycle accident and especially whilst building the house in White Post Lane, and the many happy hours thereafter, especially the time you crossed the street on all fours to get home. I believe this was the last time you put Scotch whiskey to your lips, forty-seven years ago. Richard over the last several years you bravely faced the obstacles in your path with courage and dignity, your passing has given you relief and peace. Rest in Peace Richard.
With fondest love and memories.
Your longtime brother-in-law,
Bill
I first met you Richard in Kenya when I was all of fifteen years young. And over all those years you grew not just to be a brother-in-law but more of a brother to me. We spent many memorable, occasions together, rescuing me in Mombasa after my motorcycle accident and especially whilst building the house in White Post Lane, and the many happy hours thereafter, especially the time you crossed the street on all fours to get home. I believe this was the last time you put Scotch whiskey to your lips, forty-seven years ago. Richard over the last several years you bravely faced the obstacles in your path with courage and dignity, your passing has given you relief and peace. Rest in Peace Richard.
With fondest love and memories.
Your longtime brother-in-law,
Bill
November 15, 2025
Rita dearest, I consider myself lucky to have met Richard at your wedding all those years ago and, even from the little I knew of him, his love for you and his love of life is what most stands out in my memories.
Luciano and may be far away, but our thoughts and prayers are with you and all your family, now more than ever.
Luciano and may be far away, but our thoughts and prayers are with you and all your family, now more than ever.
November 14, 2025
A fond farewell to you, Richard.
I have so many cherished memories of our relationship starting in 1961 when you were a fairly new immigrant to Rhodesia and then when I first met Rita (and she was the very best thing that’s ever happened to you) when you were on honeymoon in 1966. Plus the many experiences in Canada since 1977. In particular I recall the building of the house at Red Deer Lake with your dedication and the great times we had putting together the house and making the whole process happen.
Thank you also for all the fun and experiences we shared at your houses in Edmonton and Calgary, with good food and drink always being a focal point. You definitely were “the host with the most”.
Thank you for your stalwart perseverance and endurance in your latter years, without any signs of hardship or complaints.
Both Mary and I are so very proud of you.
Rest In Peace, dear brother-in-law.
With much love, Row
November 14, 2025
Wow Richard, looking back we have known each other for over 40 years , can’t remember exactly but what I always remember about you is you always had a smile ready to share with me and others . We worked together at Woodward’s for many years and afterwords doing real estate deals and all I remember is good times, laughs and smiles and with the rest of your family as well . You have always been a friend to me and I will miss you ol buddy as I know everybody else will. Rest in peace and my condolences to Rita and all the Graham family
Keith
Keith
November 13, 2025
Richard, you came into our lives when I was just seven years old, and I can scarcely remember a time when you weren’t there. Your life was rich, and the memories you’ve left behind are countless. Though the past several years were difficult for you, your sunset has now come, and you will be deeply missed. “Happy Hour” will always remind us of you — a time to pause, smile, and remember.
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
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
November 12, 2025
Dear Rita and family,
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!
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!
November 12, 2025
Rita, Linda & I offer our deepest condolences.
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.
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.
November 11, 2025
Dear Rita and family, my deepest condolence's to all of you. Richard's love for his family, strength and eternal optimism was truly inspirational. May he rest easy and live in your hearts forever.
Leanne Atkins
XOXOX
Leanne Atkins
XOXOX
November 11, 2025
To the Graham Family. We are so sorry to hear about Uncle Richard’s passing. Auntie Rita, you were such a wonderful partner and support for him, especially over the past few years. I know he’ll be deeply missed by all of you. I hope the happy memories you made together as a family bring you comfort, and that his spirit lives on through the stories and love you continue to share.
Diane & Judson
Diane & Judson
November 11, 2025
Richard, we have known you all our lives and you were a wonderful brother-in-law. We are saddened that your time on this earth has come to an end and that we won’t get to enjoy your presence anymore. You are at peace now after a long and hard battle to stay with Rita, the boys and their families. I am sure you are watching over us all and having a laugh at our expense. Our lives come & go, but our memories linger on in our hearts forever.
Farewell Richard!
Christine & Kevin Foley
Farewell Richard!
Christine & Kevin Foley
November 11, 2025
Dear Rita and family,
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
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
November 11, 2025
Richard, my dearly beloved brother.
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’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
November 11, 2025
Richard, you weren't just my father-in-law, but family in every sense of the word. Dad, you touched all of our lives in ways we will never forget. Thank you for the laughter and the memories. You will be missed deeply, but remembered always. Love, Diana
November 11, 2025
Dad, there are no words that can truly express how much you mean to me. Your strength, guidance, and love shaped me in to the person I am. Thank you for teaching me the value of hard work, resourcefulness, providing advice (not always taken), and showing me how to take care of the ones I love. You will forever be a part of me: in my thoughts, in my heart, and in the way I see the world. Love you, Andrew
November 11, 2025
Dad, I wish we had more time, but I am grateful for the time we shared and the memories you gave me. Thank you for everything you instilled in me, the lessons learned, the laughter, and the many "happy hours". You will always be in my heart and thoughts. Love you, miss you - John
November 11, 2025
Jerry and I are so sorry for the loss of Richard.
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
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
November 11, 2025
Richard was a man whose resilience inspired everyone around him — a quiet strength that spoke of deep faith, joy of life and unwavering hope. His generous smile lights up a room, and his love for Rita and family was both steady and selfless, the kind of devotion that reminds what truly matters in life.
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.
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.
November 10, 2025
My darling Richard, I miss you so much. I will be forever grateful for the wonderful life you gave me and our sons, and in later years our daughters-in-law and grandchildren. You were always there for us. I love you, until we meet again.
November 10, 2025
Dad, you will be always be loved and missed. Thank you for raising me with integrity, honesty, love and still inspiring me now to be the best father I can be. You were always there to play with us, support us unconditionally and guide us on our journeys. As our family has grown, your love and guidance as our grandfather was unwavering and will always be cherished and eternally in our memories. We love you Dad/Grandpa. Richard, Maria, Catherine and Benjamin
November 9, 2025
Papa, thanks for being such an amazing grandpa. Thank you for all the amazing memories you brought us. From sneaking in candy to the movie theatres, to doing the silliest things things with my cousins (while you were “supervising”) you truly are and always will be part of many of my fondest childhood memories.
November 9, 2025
Dad - I will always remember you with a twinkle in your eye, a big smile, and a little chuckle. You taught us all the value of hard work and dedication to family, friends and community. You were always a steady strength for the family, someone we could always come to when needed. Thank you for being a part of my life for so many years. I feel truly blessed. Love ~ Teresa
November 9, 2025
Dad, thank you for raising me to be the person I am today, for all the support and guidance throughout the years. I am comforted that you will always watch over us. You will never be forgotten and always in my heart. Love you ~ David
November 8, 2025
Thank you for being the best grandpa I could've asked for. You were such a big part of our lives and am so grateful for all the childhood memories. We love you and miss you but know you are forever in our hearts
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