October. 22, 1958 – April 1, 2021

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our brother, uncle, nephew & cousin on April 1st, 2021.

For those fortunate enough to have known Ric, you may remember his love of hunting, fishing, skiing, broomball, fastball, hardball and so much more. He had a quick wit, infectious laugh and sense of humour. Although he also had a quick temper at times, its was usually for a good reason – (City Bylaws come to mind….)

Ric was always with one of his PADS dogs, Logan or Finn, and before them he had 2 other dogs that he trained himself, Mr Bean & Cobber. As his constant companions, they gave him independence, making his life full and much easier.

On March 28th, 2021 he married the love of his life, Helena. She made the ‘chase’ more fun he would say, but at long last he won her heart making him the happiest man alive. For his own reasons, Ric made the choice to out with great dignity.

To his family, he was the most courageous, brave and strong-willed person we have ever known. We admire him for a life well lived!

Ric is lovingly remembered by his wife, Helena Van Dyk & her children, Milan & Chase of Parksville; Sister Dana & her son Renn Egan; Brother Patrick, his wife Charlene, and his son Jacob Egan; Uncle William (Budge) Winter & Bev and his daughter, Loanne Athans (cousin) and her children, Jessie & Kaylee, of Kelowna. He was pre-deceased by parents, Jack (2001) & Val Egan (2019); Peggy Egan (2016) of Merritt and Robert Winter (cousin) of Kelowna. Ric especially wanted to thank the Staff & Medical Teams of the Merritt and Royal Inland Hospitals (ICU). Very special thanks to Pastor Victor, Beth Nadeau, Mike & Auri Petrina, Brian Jack, Michelle Cote, Stephen Cooper, Pierre Alarie, Sylvain Rivest, Pam Jarvis & her entire family as well as the many other caregivers, friends, too many to name, who enriched his life with their friendship.

There will be no service at this time. Donations may be made to PADS (Pacific Assistance Dog Society) should friends desire to do so.

You may offer a message of condolence by visiting Merritt Funeral Chapel.

• Date : 2021-04-01
• Location : Merritt